DHL Supply Chain, the leading provider of contract logistics in the Americas, has announced its acquisition of Inmar Supply Chain Solutions, a division of Inmar Intelligence and a top provider of returns solutions for the retail e-commerce industry. This strategic acquisition positions DHL Supply Chain as the largest provider of reverse logistics solutions in North America.

“The growth opportunities that the returns market offers will enhance DHL Supply Chain's success. This acquisition aligns with DHL Group’s goal of achieving 50% revenue growth by 2030 compared to 2023, as outlined in our recently announced Strategy 2030,” said Patrick Kelleher, CEO of DHL Supply Chain, North America.

As a result of this acquisition, DHL Supply Chain will welcome 14 return centers and approximately 800 associates, expanding its North American footprint. Currently, DHL Supply Chain operates over 520 warehouses supported by 52,000 associates. The acquisition will enhance DHL’s returns capabilities, which now include product remarketing, recall management, and supply chain performance analytics. Inmar Intelligence will retain its pharmaceutical reverse distribution business.

With the rapid growth of the e-commerce market and changing consumer behaviors, returns have become a critical touchpoint for retail customers, both online and in-store. The addition of these solutions will expand the value-added services available to DHL's customers, ultimately delivering holistic solutions to meet their complex supply chain needs.

Kelleher further emphasized, “As companies strive to streamline their supply chain strategies and boost operational agility, DHL Supply Chain remains committed to innovation by providing comprehensive and integrated solutions. This acquisition strengthens our existing capabilities and allows us to offer our customers a single-source solution for their entire supply chain, especially in returns management. This will enhance the value we provide by simplifying operations, reducing complexity, and improving overall supply chain efficiency.”

Spencer Baird, CEO of Inmar Intelligence, commented, “Both Inmar Intelligence and DHL are deeply committed to customer-focused innovation. We are confident that DHL will build upon the foundation of Inmar Supply Chain Solutions that we have developed over time. Additionally, we are excited for Inmar associates to gain access to an even broader array of supply chain experiences at DHL. For Inmar Intelligence, this deal allows us to focus our investment on core businesses that are rapidly expanding.”

Consumers expect retailers to offer a seamless returns process, while retailers are challenged with issues like returns abuse and rising operational costs. The acquisition is a logical step in fostering DHL’s customer-centric approach, which involves collaboration, expertise, and integrated solutions to tackle significant supply chain challenges.

The returns market is valued at over $989 billion, yet retailers struggle with evolving consumer behavior towards returns. With Inmar’s expertise in reverse logistics, dedicated team, and technology-driven suite of returns services, DHL Supply Chain aims to provide data-backed, innovative solutions that create positive return experiences for consumers while protecting profitability for retailers in a competitive marketplace, according to Kraig Foreman, President of eCommerce for DHL Supply Chain, North America.

Furthermore, the acquisition of Inmar Supply Chain Solutions supports DHL’s strategic goal of decarbonizing its operations by 2050. In its recently announced Strategy 2030, sustainability is emphasized as a strategic priority, recognizing its increasing importance as a key differentiator in the logistics sector. Helping global customers achieve carbon neutrality is essential, and DHL Group aims to remain a leader in low-carbon logistics operations.

Sustainability is at the core of returns management, and Inmar’s technology-driven reverse logistics solutions are recognized across the industry for reducing costs and minimizing waste generated from returned consumer goods.