InPost, a leading Polish logistics company, has taken a major step to expand its presence in the UK by acquiring full control of Menzies Distribution Limited. The company, founded by Rafał Brzoska, purchased the remaining 70% of Menzies shares for £60.4 million, following the acquisition of a 30% stake last year. This strategic move grants InPost complete control over Menzies’ Express and Newstrade operations, boosting its influence in the British logistics market.
InPost, known for its innovative parcel locker system, has seen significant growth in the UK over the past year, tripling its revenues. The company’s focus on scaling its operations to meet the rising demand for e-commerce logistics, particularly through its expanding network of parcel lockers, has positioned it as a key player in the market.
“Our long-term goal is to revolutionize the UK’s e-commerce market. With Menzies, we are creating an integrated organization that will meet growing consumer demand for parcel locker deliveries,” said Brzoska, CEO of InPost.
Accelerating Growth in the UK and Beyond
InPost’s acquisition comes as part of a broader strategy to expand its logistics network across the UK and potentially into other markets. Brzoska has highlighted Ireland as a potential next step in the company’s expansion. Although no concrete plans have been set, InPost’s existing logistics platform in the region offers a foundation for further growth.
“This transaction is a milestone for us, marking our second-largest acquisition after Mondial Relay. It underscores our focus on the UK market, where we are already leading in terms of machine numbers and network development,” Brzoska added during a press conference. The acquisition is expected to drive rapid market share gains, as more UK consumers embrace InPost’s parcel locker technology.
The company’s synergy with Menzies has already shown results. In the first half of 2024, InPost reported a 156% increase in shipments in the UK, driven by Menzies’ logistical capabilities. This growth has allowed InPost to enhance service quality, improving key performance indicators and operational efficiency.
A Strategic Acquisition
Menzies Distribution, a major player in the UK’s logistics sector, was previously divided into three segments: Express, Newstrade, and MDS. InPost’s acquisition focuses on the Express and Newstrade divisions, while the MDS segment, responsible for full-load transport and warehousing, remains under the control of investment firm Endless LLP. InPost retains a 30% stake in MDS, ensuring continued collaboration on broader logistics operations.
By gaining full control of Menzies’ core operations, InPost can now streamline its services and better cater to the UK’s growing e-commerce demand. Neil Kuschel, CEO of InPost UK, emphasized that combining the strengths of both organizations will allow InPost to serve the business-to-consumer (B2C) market more effectively, particularly as British consumers become more familiar with the convenience of parcel lockers.
Looking Ahead to Further Expansion
InPost’s ambitions are not limited to the UK. The company is eyeing other international markets, with Brzoska hinting that Ireland could be the next logical step in its expansion. While details are yet to be confirmed, the CEO emphasized the importance of a strong logistics foundation, which InPost has already established in the region.
The acquisition of Menzies is part of InPost’s larger vision to become a global leader in e-commerce logistics, leveraging its innovative solutions to meet the growing needs of online retailers and consumers alike. With its sights set on new markets and continued growth in the UK, InPost is poised to further disrupt the logistics industry with its efficient and consumer-friendly approach.
This acquisition solidifies InPost’s position as a dominant player in the UK market, with plans to continue expanding its influence across Europe and beyond.
