DHL warms to Chile’s e-commerce boom

DHL eCommerce has launched a business to consumer (B2C) domestic delivery operation in Chile, as the Latin American country’s e-commerce sector looks set to double to $2.3bn by 2020.
Charles Brewer, DHL eCommerce’s chief executive, said: “The future is incredibly bright for the e-commerce sector across Latin America with a forecasted growth of 21% CAGR and is expected to reach $54bn by 2020.
“Chile is number one in the region for online shopping with rising incomes, improving digital connectivity and seven out of 10 shoppers already shopping online.
“With e-commerce in Chile growing at such a rapid pace we see a fantastic opportunity for high quality solutions that will offer a great customer experience and more choice, convenience and control for Chile’s online shoppers.”
The e-commerce division of Deutsche Post DHL Group offers next-day delivery in Santiago and other major cities within Chile, and 2-3 day delivery across the rest of the country.
Added Brewer: “The opportunities in e-commerce are enormous and companies that succeed in getting it right will win in this exciting space. Fulfilment and last mile delivery are the new game-changers in e-commerce.
“Brands and e-tailers must aim to deliver the best experience for their shoppers in this highly competitive sector.”
Hugo Donoso, country manager DHL eCommerce Chile, said: “Chile is one of the most advanced e-commerce markets in Latin America with 72% internet penetration and 50% smartphone penetration – the highest in the region. With e-commerce currently accounting for 2.8% of the country’s total retail sales, there is plenty of room for growth.
“We aim to change the rules of the game in Chile by offering high quality logistics that will fill a gap in the market,” he added.
“We know that distribution is the main weakness of online businesses, and along with our team of e-commerce experts, we aim to be a true strategic ally for our customers, to take care of their logistical needs so that they can focus on their business."
DHL eCommerce’s investment in Chile includes a 1,662 sq m central hub and depot and a growing ground fleet.