Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has announced a partnership with Correos, Spain’s national postal service. Through this collaboration, e-commerce sellers in Spain will be able to benefit from fulfillment solutions, while consumers will have access to alternative delivery options.

The affordable e-commerce marketplace Temu is strengthening its presence in Europe. Having been active in the region for some time and expanding rapidly, Temu has reached a significant market share in various European e-commerce sectors. Last year, the platform invited European e-commerce sellers to join its marketplace.

New Delivery Partnership in Spain

Earlier this year, the platform began collaborating with local warehouses in Europe. These facilities store products from both Chinese and European sellers, enabling faster deliveries to consumers. In the long term, Temu aims to fulfill 80% of its European sales through local warehouses.

Now, Temu has announced a new partnership to enhance delivery options in Spain. To facilitate sales and expedite deliveries, the company has partnered with Correos. This collaboration will optimize fulfillment solutions while also reducing delivery times. Leveraging Correos’ extensive distribution network, Temu will be able to offer additional service options to consumers.

Temu’s New Partnership Covers Spanish Islands

The partnership between Temu and Correos extends to the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands, Ceuta, and Melilla. With nationwide coverage, this collaboration allows Temu to better align with local market demands.

A spokesperson for Temu commented on the partnership, stating, “Temu’s mission is to make quality products more affordable for consumers worldwide. By partnering with Correos, we are strengthening our commitment to delivering a superior customer experience through reliable and efficient logistics services.”

Temu Was the Most Downloaded App in Spain in 2023 and 2024

This collaboration integrates Temu’s optimized supply chain model with Correos’ logistics network and e-commerce expertise. It underscores Temu’s ongoing commitment to adapting to local market needs while empowering consumers with convenient and cost-effective shopping solutions.

Temu launched in Spain in March 2023 and has since offered a vast selection of products across more than 600 categories. Its direct-to-consumer model connects buyers with manufacturers, reducing costs and inefficiencies commonly found in traditional retail supply chains—without compromising quality. Reflecting the growing consumer demand for value-driven shopping, Temu became the most downloaded app in Spain in both 2023 and 2024.

Recently, the company has begun inviting local sellers in key markets such as Spain, the U.S., the U.K., Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Mexico to join the platform. Temu expects up to 80% of its total sales to come from this local-to-local model and anticipates that European-based sellers will be able to expand globally through the platform in the future.

Temu enters South Korean market

China’s leading e-commerce marketplace, JD.com, has signed an official partnership with the UEFA Champions League (UCL). Under this agreement, JD.com will serve as the tournament’s “e-commerce innovation partner” until the end of the 2026-27 season. Through this partnership, football fans will gain access to exclusive products, digital experiences, and special campaigns. The primary goal of the partnership is to further enhance the fan experience.

JD.com (Jingdong) has become the official e-commerce innovation partner of the UEFA Champions League (UCL). As a leading e-commerce retailer and technology service provider in China, JD.com and its European e-commerce brand, Ochama, will offer fans and consumers unique football interactions, exclusive products, discounts, prizes, and innovative services.

The Official UEFA Champions League Online Store Will Open in China

The collaboration between UEFA and JD.com stands out as a key part of JD.com’s strategy to expand its presence beyond China. Through JD.com’s European e-commerce brand, Ochama, official UEFA Champions League products will be available for sale, offering football fans innovative shopping experiences. Additionally, the official UEFA Champions League online store will be launched in China, providing Chinese consumers with access to licensed products, limited-edition collectibles, and match tickets.

“Football Fans Worldwide Will Feel Closer to the UEFA Champions League”

UEFA Marketing Director Guy-Laurent Epstein stated, “This partnership with JD.com will allow football fans around the world to feel closer to the UEFA Champions League. By leveraging JD.com’s technological expertise, we aim to provide exclusive products and unique opportunities.”

JD.com Senior Vice President James Shao added, “The UEFA Champions League is one of the most prestigious football tournaments in the world and offers an excellent platform to increase JD.com’s visibility in Europe. We are committed to providing unique digital experiences and access to official products for football fans in both Europe and China.”

A Comprehensive Sponsorship Agreement

In addition to the UEFA Champions League, JD.com will also sponsor other UEFA competitions, including the UEFA Futsal Champions League, the UEFA Youth League, and the UEFA Super Cup. This strategic move will strengthen JD.com’s commitment to the global football community while increasing its brand recognition in international markets.

JD.com will not only focus on product sales but also plans to develop innovative digital strategies to enhance fan engagement. Special discounts, limited-edition prize campaigns, and interactive fan experiences will be offered. The company’s advanced logistics and technology solutions will ensure that UEFA Champions League products reach consumers faster and more efficiently.

As part of this collaboration, JD.com will work with UEFA and other sponsors to create a dedicated e-commerce community within the JD.com app. This platform will offer interactive content, official football club merchandise, and exclusive prizes, further strengthening fans’ passion for football.

A New Era in UEFA’s Commercial Strategy

This agreement comes at a time of significant changes in UEFA’s commercial operations. UEFA recently announced that it has entered exclusive negotiations with Relevent Sports for marketing rights to club tournaments for the 2027-33 period. This development is expected to reshape the commercial structure of European football and position strategic partnerships like JD.com’s as key contributors to fan engagement and revenue growth.

With this partnership, JD.com aims to redefine fan engagement with the UEFA Champions League, offering a unique digital shopping and interaction experience. As the tournament continues to captivate football fans worldwide, this collaboration is set to leave a lasting impact on the global football market.

Zalando has recorded significant revenue and profitability growth in 2024, reinforcing its expansion strategy. The company has announced plans to enter Portugal, Greece, and Bulgaria, marking its first international expansion since 2022.

The Berlin-based fashion e-commerce giant rebounded in 2024 after two years of declining sales. The company reported a 4.2% increase in revenue and a 4.5% rise in gross merchandise volume (GMV). Net income surged to €251.1 million, tripling its 2023 earnings.

Zalando Nears 52 Million Active Customers

Zalando’s active customer base has grown to nearly 52 million, reflecting an increase of 2.2 million compared to the previous year. The company attributes this success to its ecosystem strategy, which integrates both B2C (business-to-consumer) and B2B (business-to-business) models. This dual approach not only unlocks new revenue streams but also cements Zalando’s leadership in the online fashion market.

Looking ahead, platform aims to further strengthen its presence across Europe. The company plans to expand its premium loyalty program, Zalando Plus, which is already available in Germany, Italy, Spain, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Austria.

Additionally, Zalando’s planned acquisition of About You is expected to enhance its B2B segment, positioning the company as a dominant player in fashion wholesale and logistics.

Expansion into Three More Countries in 2025

Despite global economic uncertainties, platform remains optimistic, forecasting revenue and GMV growth of 4% to 9% for 2025. The company’s transition into an integrated e-commerce ecosystem and its targeted expansion strategy are seen as key drivers of its continued success.

By entering Portugal, Greece, and Bulgaria, Zalando will expand its operations to 28 countries by 2025. The company last expanded internationally in 2022, when it entered Hungary and Romania, followed by Lithuania, Slovakia, and Slovenia in 2024.

Zalando’s Co-CEO Robert Gentz emphasized the company’s strategic direction, stating: “Our ecosystem strategy is our exciting new North Star. It has already contributed to a strong financial performance in 2024, and we are now accelerating our execution efforts and investing to capture future growth.”

Takealot, one of South Africa’s leading e-commerce marketplaces, has announced a strategic partnership with creative agency Joe Public. This collaboration marks a significant step in the country’s digital retail sector, aiming to strengthen Takealot’s market presence while reshaping the e-commerce experience for South African consumers.

With internet penetration on the rise and mobile commerce gaining momentum, South Africa’s online shopping landscape is undergoing a pivotal transformation. In response, key players in the e-commerce ecosystem are forming strategic alliances to stay ahead of evolving consumer behaviors.

Recognized as one of the country’s largest e-commerce platforms, Takealot is joining forces with Joe Public, one of South Africa’s most influential advertising agencies. This partnership is set to enhance Takealot’s brand narrative, boost customer engagement, and elevate its digital marketing strategies. By offering a diverse range of products across categories such as electronics, fashion, and home essentials, Takealot continues to lead South Africa’s e-commerce industry. Through this strategic move, Takealot and Joe Public are not only combining their expertise but also shaping the future of digital commerce in the region.

“Our Goal Is to Create Campaigns That Resonate with South African Consumers”

Mpume Ngobese, Co-Managing Director of Joe Public, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating: “We are thrilled to work with a pioneering brand like Takealot. Our objective is not only to enhance Takealot’s brand awareness but also to develop compelling, culturally relevant campaigns that foster deeper connections with South African shoppers.”

Takealot’s Chief Marketing Officer, Julie-Anne Walsh, emphasized the significance of this partnership in strengthening the brand’s messaging. She added: “Joe Public’s expertise in storytelling and brand-building makes them the ideal partner. Our aim is to create campaigns that resonate with South African consumers, making online shopping more engaging, accessible, and rewarding.”

Takealot Aims to Stand Out with Strong Marketing Strategies

Through this partnership, Takealot’s platform is set to become more user-friendly and dynamic, featuring innovative promotions, community-driven initiatives, and enhanced digital experiences. Consumers can look forward to more personalized marketing efforts, creative advertising campaigns, and interactive content designed to enhance their online shopping journey.

This approach aligns seamlessly with Takealot’s vision of delivering a customer-centric and innovative retail experience. As competition in the e-commerce sector intensifies, Takealot is committed to differentiating itself through robust marketing strategies and cutting-edge consumer engagement techniques.

Ranked 27th in the 2024 Kantar BrandZ South Africa Report, Takealot continues to solidify its position as a dominant force in the industry. Meanwhile, Joe Public embraces this opportunity with enthusiasm, eager to contribute to Takealot’s ongoing brand evolution.

E-commerce giant Amazon is preparing to expand its discount retail platform, Amazon Haul, into new markets. Launched in November 2024, Amazon Haul positions itself as a direct competitor to low-cost, Asia-based online marketplaces such as Temu and Shein. The platform offers budget-friendly products across categories like cosmetics, clothing, and accessories, with most items priced at $20 or less.

Amazon Haul Set to Enter the European Market

Amazon is gearing up to introduce Haul in Europe later this year. The company has been steadily increasing its market share in the region, generating €39.6 billion from Germany and €36.7 billion from the United Kingdom in 2024 alone. These figures represent an annual growth of 8.7% and 12.7%, respectively. However, with discount-focused competitors gaining traction, Amazon is actively seeking ways to maintain its dominance in the e-commerce landscape.

Currently, Amazon Haul is accessible exclusively through the company’s mobile app. The platform aims to attract price-conscious shoppers looking for affordable yet trendy products. Given the success of budget-friendly e-commerce platforms, Amazon’s decision to expand Haul into Europe is viewed as a strategic move to tap into a rapidly growing market segment.

Amazon Hiring for Amazon Haul Expansion

According to industry sources, Amazon has recently posted job openings for software development engineers dedicated to the Haul platform. These positions are expected to play a crucial role in facilitating the platform’s global rollout. The recruitment drive suggests that Amazon is preparing to launch Haul across multiple countries, with Europe emerging as its next key expansion target.

Amazon Launches Pilot of Amazon Now in Bengaluru

Türkiye-based e-commerce marketplace Trendyol has introduced its 2025 Ramadan Collection, inspired by the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia and designed exclusively for customers in the Gulf region. The collection features 90 carefully curated pieces, including abayas, dresses, kaftans, and coordinated top-and-bottom sets, blending cultural heritage with contemporary elegance.

Crafted by Trendyol’s in-house design team and produced by top-tier Turkish suppliers, the collection embraces pastel, neutral, and earthy tones that reflect the essence of Cappadocia. Designed for modest yet stylish dressing, the collection showcases flowing silhouettes and delicate ruffle details.

Gold buttons, jewel embellishments, and elegant bow accents add versatility, making the pieces ideal for both iftar gatherings and suhoor celebrations. Additionally, the collection includes a limited-edition Eid series, featuring chic “mini-me” outfits for mothers and daughters to celebrate the festive season in style.

“Our Modest Wear Collection Was Met with Great Enthusiasm in the Gulf”

Reflecting on Trendyol’s previous success in the region, Mohamad ElAnsari, CEO of Trendyol Gulf, stated: “Last year, we introduced Trendyol’s first Ramadan Collection tailored for the Gulf, which received overwhelming interest and sold out rapidly. Inspired by Turkey’s rich cultural heritage and the timeless beauty of Cappadocia, this latest collection reaffirms our commitment to the region and our dedication to understanding our customers’ preferences. We remain focused on delivering relevant, high-quality, and accessible products to our Gulf shoppers.”

A Dedicated Home Collection for Ramadan

Expanding beyond fashion, Trendyol has also launched its first-ever in-house Home Collection for Ramadan, offering a Mediterranean-inspired selection of home essentials. The collection includes elegant table covers, runners, placemats, towels, and duvet covers, helping customers prepare their homes for the holy month and festive gatherings.

Trendyol entered the Gulf market in 2023 and has since become one of the most downloaded shopping apps in the region, attracting over 4 million customers across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.

Indian e-commerce giant Flipkart has officially shut down its subsidiary, ANS Commerce, leading to the layoff of its entire workforce.

Flipkart had acquired ANS Commerce in 2022. While the exact number of affected employees remains undisclosed, the company had a workforce of approximately 600 employees at the end of the 2022 fiscal year.

Flipkart Pledges a Smooth Transition for Employees and Stakeholders

Confirming the development, Flipkart issued a statement: “After a thorough evaluation, ANS Commerce, a full-stack e-commerce enabler acquired by Flipkart in 2022, has decided to cease operations. As we wind down the business, we remain committed to ensuring a seamless transition for all stakeholders, including employees and customers.”

The company further stated: “To minimize the impact on employees during this transition, we plan to offer internal opportunities at Flipkart, provide outplacement services, and offer severance packages.”

About Flipkart

Flipkart is an India-based e-commerce company founded in 2007 by Sachin Bansal and Binny Bansal. Initially launched as an online bookstore, Flipkart gradually expanded into a large marketplace offering products across various categories, including electronics, fashion, home essentials, and more.

In 2018, U.S.-based retail giant Walmart acquired a 77% stake in Flipkart for approximately $16 billion, making it the majority shareholder. This acquisition became one of the largest deals in India’s e-commerce sector.

Flipkart is one of India’s leading e-commerce platforms, competing with major players like Amazon India and Reliance Retail. The company also owns Myntra and PhonePe, among other subsidiary brands.

Russian e-commerce giant Ozon has announced an impressive revenue surge, exceeding 500% growth in 2024. The company’s revenue reached 40.1 billion rubles ($459.34 million), driven by improved monetization of its marketplace operations and the expansion of its fintech services.

Ozon Achieves Record EBITDA of $432.3 Million

Ozon reported a record-breaking adjusted earnings before interest, tax, amortization, and depreciation (EBITDA) of 40 billion rubles ($432.3 million). The company expects its adjusted EBITDA to rise to 70-90 billion rubles in 2025, reflecting confidence in its ongoing growth trajectory. This remarkable financial performance signals profitability, economic recovery, and a stable foundation for further development.

Marketplace Growth and Fintech Expansion Fuel Success

Ozon’s strong financial results underscore its evolving business model. The company has taken significant steps to enhance revenue from third-party sellers by refining commission structures, expanding advertising solutions, and optimizing logistics services.

Additionally, Ozon’s fintech division has played a pivotal role in boosting profitability. The company has significantly broadened its financial services, including consumer lending, payment solutions, and digital wallets, further strengthening its market position.

“Our outstanding 2024 performance reflects the strength of our platform and the effectiveness of our strategic investments,” said Ozon CEO Alexander Shulgin. “We remain committed to delivering innovative solutions for both sellers and consumers, ensuring long-term growth.”

Ozon’s 2025 Ambitions

Global marketplace has set ambitious financial goals for 2025, aiming to elevate its adjusted EBITDA to between 70 and 90 billion rubles. With a rapidly expanding customer base and a strong focus on technological innovation, the company is solidifying its presence in e-commerce and digital payments.

As Russia’s online retail sector continues its upward trajectory, marketplace is well-positioned to capitalize on new opportunities and sustain its growth momentum. The company’s commitment to expansion and innovation places it among the key players shaping the future of global e-commerce.

One of Germany’s largest online marketplaces, Otto, has announced plans to eliminate 480 call center positions, leading to the closure of several customer service locations across the country.

Otto is Experiencing Financial Difficulties

Otto has been facing ongoing financial difficulties. After opening its platform to third-party sellers in 2020, the company aimed to expand its marketplace to include sellers from across Europe by spring 2024. However, around the same time, Otto sharply increased its seller fees from €39.90 to €99.90 per month. In response to this price hike, nearly 1,200 sellers closed their accounts in the five months that followed.

AI Begins to Replace Human Customer Support

In a bid to cut costs, Otto has decided to scale back its customer service operations. The company no longer views traditional customer service as profitable, believing that phone support has become less relevant. Most customer inquiries and issues are now handled through emails, online forms, live chats, or AI-driven bots, reducing the need for a large human workforce.

13 Customer Service Centers to Shut Down by August 2025

As part of this downsizing, Otto plans to terminate at least 480 positions. The company has confirmed that it will cease operations at 13 customer service locations by August 2025.

700 Employees to Stay On as Cost-Cutting Continues

Despite the layoffs, Otto will retain 700 customer service employees. Those affected by the job cuts will receive severance payments, with the company already determining the maximum compensation amount. In addition to workforce reductions, Otto is reportedly exploring other cost-saving measures to stabilize its financial position.