by Vivian Yang

As JD.com continues to broaden its global footprint, we understand that a robust, well-integrated supply chain is instrumental for success. Guided by this understanding, we have zeroed in on forging robust partnerships in European markets. By leveraging our deep expertise in e-commerce, logistics, and technology, we aim to set new benchmarks for supply chain excellence in the region. This article explores four strategies we’re employing to achieve this goal.

1. Expanding Our Warehouse Network Across Europe

Located in Milton Keynes, just outside London, our JD Property division operates a pivotal logistics distribution center. This facility serves as a linchpin in the supply chain for John Lewis, the UK’s largest department store. Strategically located near major transit routes, the center offers rapid connectivity to major cities including London, Birmingham, Northampton, Cambridge, and Oxford — putting us within a 4.5-hour drive of 85% of the UK population.

Beyond the UK, JD Property has successfully rolled out 11 similar warehousing projects across Europe. Globally, we operate nearly 90 bonded warehouses, overseas warehouses, and direct mail warehouses, with comprehensive transportation options spanning sea, air, and land routes. Within Europe, our logistics division, JD Logistics, is currently constructing overseas warehouses in Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, France, the UK, and Spain, building a warehouse network that effectively covers a majority of the continent.

2. Empowering Brands with Next-Gen Automated Warehouse Solutions

JD Logistics empowers local retailers in Europe by equipping them with cutting-edge logistics technology. Our state-of-the-art solutions have drastically improved operational efficiency for renowned European brands, including lingerie retailer Hunkemöller and Poland’s largest retail chain Biedronka.

For example, our Venlo distribution center in the Netherlands is a testament to logistics ingenuity, featuring advanced automation technologies like AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), robotic arms, and sophisticated logistics management systems. By implementing these technologies, our partners have seen operational costs decrease and efficiency improve by more than 300% compared to traditional warehouses.

3. Elevating Delivery Services Through Strategic Partnerships

JD Logistics recently partnered with Geopost, Europe’s largest international parcel delivery network based in France. This collaboration enables prompt local delivery from our overseas warehouses, with one-day delivery now possible in countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, France, the UK, Spain, and Poland.

Our end-to-end delivery solutions feature door-to-door service, attentive customer support, real-time digital tracking, and convenient global returns. These services not only minimize overhead for European businesses but also deliver packages one to two days faster on average than major international express companies.

4. A Trusted and Reliable Gateway to the Chinese Market

JD Retail is committed to serving as the most reliable channel for European brands entering China. Hundreds of European brands have chosen JD.com as their first partner when entering the Chinese market.

Our pioneering “National Pavilion” , active since 2014, has garnered strong support from embassies and authoritative institutions from numerous countries, serving as an effective channel to introduce their countries’ products and cultures to Chinese consumers. To date, JD.com features over 100 national and regional pavilions, offering more than 5,100 unique products and attracting over 1.5 billion annual views from more than 10 million active users.

Over 20 European countries spanning key economic regions across the continent have established leveraged this platform. They include the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Denmark, Finland, Spain, Portugal, Russia, Italy, Czech Republic, Serbia, Romania, and Georgia, among others.

A Glimpse into the Future: JD.com’s ‘35711’ Vision

As we celebrated our 20th anniversary this past June, JD.com CEO Sandy Xuofficially announced our “35711” Vision. In line with this ambitious roadmap, JD.com is gearing up to extend our supply chain services globally, aiming to create infrastructure in economies contributing to 80% of the world’s economic output.

As we strive to achieve this vision, we remain committed to delivering unparalleled value to our European partners and customers through cutting-edge solutions and robust collaborations.

(vivian.yang@jd.com)