Beyond Logistics: How the DHL-Evri Merger Creates New Affiliate Revenue Streams

Image courtesy of Evri.com

Evri and DHL eCommerce UK have announced a strategic merger that will create one of the UK’s largest delivery networks. While logistics news might not typically grab affiliate marketers’ attention, this particular union has far-reaching implications for both affiliates and program managers promoting e-commerce brands.

The Merger at a Glance

The newly combined entity will deliver over 1 billion parcels and 1 billion business letters annually, with DHL Group acquiring a significant minority stake in Evri. The merger brings together Evri’s cost-effective courier service with DHL eCommerce’s premium van delivery network, which will be rebranded as “Evri Premium.”

Key Implications for Affiliate Marketers

1. Enhanced Conversion Potential Through Premium Delivery Options

The combined delivery portfolio now gives merchants access to both budget-friendly and premium delivery services under one roof. For affiliates, this means promoted products can now offer customers more choice at checkout.

“We are excited that DHL eCommerce UK will merge with Evri to bring together two highly complementary UK businesses – committed to innovation and offering customers and clients the best possible service. By combining Evri’s scale, innovation and DHL eCommerce’s best-in-class premium van network, we are creating the pre-eminent parcel delivery group in the UK. Over the last decade Evri has grown ten-fold in size and this transaction will further expand our access into the European and global e-commerce markets. Since Apollo-managed funds came on board as our owners, they have backed our intent to drive forward and grow to become the UK’s premier parcel delivery business.”
– Martijn de Lange, CEO of Evri

The separate, dedicated premium network for high-value and larger parcels provides affiliates in the luxury, electronics, and home goods niches with a compelling new selling point to include in reviews and comparison content.

2. International Growth Opportunities

The merger leverages DHL’s extensive cross-border expertise and global network of nearly 150,000 access points, with faster transit times across Europe, the US, and select Asian markets including India.

For affiliate program managers, this presents an opportunity to expand programs internationally without the logistics headaches that typically accompany cross-border e-commerce.

Program managers should be evaluating their affiliate recruitment strategies in light of this news. With better international shipping infrastructure in place, UK brands can more confidently recruit affiliates in European markets and beyond, knowing their customers will receive reliable service.

3. SME-Focused Solutions Create New Partnership Avenues

The combined group is positioning itself as a “one-stop shop” for SMEs, offering everything from mail and lightweight shipping to international and fulfillment services. This comprehensive approach could make e-commerce more accessible to smaller merchants.

For affiliate managers, this means a potential influx of new, niche merchants entering the space—ideal partners for content affiliates looking beyond the major retailers. For affiliates, it presents opportunities to diversify partnership portfolios with emerging brands that can now offer professional-level shipping experiences.

4. Improved Out-of-Home Delivery Network

The UK’s largest out-of-home network of 15,000 access points offers merchants greater flexibility in delivery options. For affiliates promoting to urban demographics or commuters, the convenience factor of local pickup points can be a powerful conversion tool when highlighted in product recommendations.

What Affiliate Marketers Should Do Now

1. Audit current merchant partners to identify those using either DHL eCommerce or Evri services, as they may experience service changes.
2. Update product reviews for high-value items to highlight the enhanced security of the premium delivery network where applicable.
3. Consider international content expansion to leverage improved cross-border shipping capabilities offered by merchant partners.
4. Watch for new program opportunities as smaller merchants may enter the affiliate space with improved logistics support.
5. Monitor conversion rates over the coming months as shipping options evolve and potentially impact customer purchasing decisions.

The merger is subject to regulatory approval, with Martijn de Lange (current Evri CEO) set to lead the combined business. For forward-thinking affiliates and program managers, this logistics development represents not just a shipping update but a strategic opportunity to refine promotion strategies and expand market reach.

This article is part of our ongoing coverage of developments affecting the affiliate marketing industry. For more insights, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.