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The joint venture, based in the United Kingdom, combines the extensive expertise of MS Direct and UKP Worldwide in the areas of returns management, customs clearance, duty reclaim and shipping solutions. Both MS Direct and UKPW have years of experience in cross-border e-commerce, serving top international brands and retailers.

The solution from UKPW and MS Direct supports holistic entry into the UK. The goal of the merger is to offer an outstanding customer experience by removing any barriers for the end customer and shortening delivery times. Additionally, the returns process is relocated to the location of customs clearance, which is logistically sensible as the goods do not travel unnecessary distances. With the joint venture, online shops also benefit from a single point of contact and a modular service structure.

Benefits for Online Shops

• One-stop service: a service for customs, returns, and duty reclaim for the British market
• Excellent customer experience: fast delivery times and local returns process
• High returns expertise from the Swiss market by MS Direct
• Perfect Match: UKPW – an established player in the British e-commerce market
• Ideal location: consolidation of returns near the parcel hubs

"With Brexit, complex tax and customs regulations have led to increased uncertainty and barriers in cross-border trade in the UK, which are still palpable. Our mission is not only to overcome these hurdles but also to actively support online shops in fully exploiting their market potential in Europe’s largest e-commerce market. Thanks to optimised delivery times and automated processes, customers do not feel the trade barriers when shopping online.", says Peter Egger, VP Growth at MS Direct about the joint venture.

Guy Cliffe, Sales Director at UKP Worldwide adds: "We are extraordinarily pleased about the establishment of the joint venture with MS Direct. This step is not only the solidification of a partnership that has grown over the years, but also the merger of two companies that can perfectly bring their respective strengths to provide a seamless, transparent, and effective solution for e-commerce between the UK and the EU."

The E-commerce Market in the UK

The United Kingdom has one of the most developed e-commerce markets in Europe. In 2023, the country had nearly 60 million e-commerce users – only a minority of the nearly 67 million residents do not shop online. E-commerce revenue 2023 is estimated at 109.0 billion British pounds (128.9 billion Euros). In comparison, revenue in Germany, according to the industry association BEVH, stood at 79.7 billion Euros (68.5 billion British pounds).

The Partners

About MS Direct

MS Direct AG is a leading partner in online retail for automated solutions in the areas of fulfillment, shipping, and cross-border e-commerce. Customers benefit from a "worry-free package": Whether nationwide or from the European Union to third countries like Switzerland, the UK, and Norway – MS Direct ensures that online orders arrive quickly and smoothly, turning shoppers into loyal supporters.

About UKP Worldwide

UKP Worldwide specialises in the customs clearance of e-commerce parcels and postal shipments to and from the United Kingdom, as well as returns management, including the reclaiming of customs duties. With more than 20 years of experience in the e-commerce industry, we offer the confidence and expertise that online shops and their customers desire, combined with practical advice and excellent customer service.

More Information

Returns Service in the UK with Unwind

Unwind Returns