European e-commerce delivery company Hermes has announced plans to take on new markets – notably in the US and Asia.
Part of these plans involve the Hermes BorderGuru service that the company says will, “enable retailers from Europe and North America looking to expand globally the opportunity to sell and deliver their goods worldwide”.

Head of Global E-Commerce Business Development at Hermes and Director of BorderGuru, Martin Kreiter said: “The ongoing boom in e-commerce is opening the door for many retailers who, to date, have been solely operating on their national market, giving them the chance and the potential to roll out their business models beyond country borders and to tap new sales markets.

“Hermes provides them with the services they need, whether they are European retailers touting its products in China or American providers looking to get a foot in the European markets.”

E-commerce is going global with most online retailers saying they export at some point. Consequently they can leverage Hermes BorderGuru system that includes managing the international logistics chain, as well as country specific import and customs clearance. The software is integrated directly into the client’s web shop and provides shoppers with an accurate listing of all costs including customs. Client retailers will also have access to a global parcel tracking system, something that many of the company’s rivals do not offer.

Kreiter went on to say, “Many customers are put off by the high costs of shipping, long delivery times or currency and customs issues. These factors are still big hurdles on the global market. BorderGuru sees itself as an enabler for cross-border shipments, offering clients an exciting launch pad for sales expansion, focussing on convenience and transparency without the risk.”

“Many of our clients are on the cusp on the international distribution and are looking to expand gradually, without having to build up their own facilities in target countries, for example,” added Kreiter.

“For these clients, the Hermes Group – with its rich background in providing retail-related services – is able to offer a range of appealing options to help them tap new markets. These allow them to set up their own websites or position themselves on platforms of established retailers and to market their products this way.”