Benetton’s new eCommerce initiative United Web has appointed TNT its logistics supplier.
United Web, a new eCommerce initiative from Benetton and Andersen Consulting, has awarded a two-year contract to TNT Logistics. TNT Express will provide the premium delivery service to ensure that customers in Italy, Germany and the UK receive their urgent orders by next day or two day delivery.
The venture expects its consignment volumes to grow rapidly as it begins United Web’s advertising campaign and delivery is expanded to additional countries. It will expand in 2001 to additional European counties as well outside the EU, so could prove quite lucrative in the longer term.
For United Web, however, the signing with TNT is crucial to it building a global eBrand. It needs to have a strong relationship with its customers and ensure their satisfaction through punctual delivery. TNT’s size and global presence are essential for United Web’s expansion in terms of both volume and geographic coverage.
An integrated logistics offering and network is essential for the success of eCommerce. It brings virtual goods to the doors of customers. The global logistics giants, reaping the rewards of their numerous acquisitions to expand their coverage, are the perfect partner for any online retail site with multinational aspirations. The competition for contracts will be intense as logistics companies offer more precise delivery windows and therefore will help eTailers build up better relations with their customers.
