Zalando reshapes logistics network, creating more value for customers and partners
- barboraarendasova
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Zalando is reshaping its pan-European logistics network to reinforce its position in the European fashion and lifestyle market. The company is adjusting its logistics setup to continue delivering high-quality services at competitive costs for customers and partners, while increasing overall value creation and supporting sustainable growth in the coming years.
Following a comprehensive review of its logistics operations over recent months, Zalando has developed a plan to better align capacity across the combined Zalando and ABOUT YOU network with current and future business needs. The objective is to future-proof the logistics setup and ensure it remains fit for purpose as market conditions evolve.
As part of this restructuring, Zalando has decided to close its fulfilment centre in Erfurt, Germany, by the end of September 2026. In addition, operations will be discontinued at three warehouses outside Germany that are operated by external service providers for Zalando and ABOUT YOU.
The company emphasized that the decision was made after careful consideration. In Erfurt, where Zalando is the direct employer, the company plans to engage in an open and transparent dialogue with employees, employee representatives, and partners. Negotiations with the Erfurt Works Council on a Balance of Interests and a Social Plan will begin immediately. Zalando has also prepared structured support measures, developed together with external experts, to assist affected employees during the transition.
The Erfurt site has played a significant role in Zalando’s logistics operations for more than a decade, employing around 2,700 people and forming a key part of the company’s logistics backbone. Zalando stated that it remains committed to working with local authorities and civil society organisations to help mitigate the regional impact of the closure.
At the same time, Zalando plans to continue investing in advanced logistics technologies, automation, and more sustainable practices across its European network. These investments support the company’s broader ecosystem strategy and are intended to enable faster innovation and improved service levels for customers and partners.
Following the planned adjustments, Zalando’s logistics network will consist of 14 fulfilment centres across seven countries. The company reiterated its mid-term growth targets of 5–10% compound annual growth in both Gross Merchandise Volume (GMV) and revenue.
Since its beginnings in 2008, Zalando’s logistics network has continuously evolved—from basic shelf storage in a Berlin office to a pan-European infrastructure serving more than 60 million customers in 29 markets. The latest changes represent a more significant structural step, reflecting the integration of Zalando and ABOUT YOU and the focus on building a scalable platform for both B2C and B2B operations.
The integrated network is intended to enable more flexible stock holding and universal order fulfilment across brands and partners, including those using ZEOS Fulfilment, Zalando’s logistics solution for fashion and lifestyle retailers. This approach aims to reduce complexity, increase efficiency, and improve speed across the entire logistics ecosystem.
Image source: corporate.zalando.com
