FedEx prepares for APAC festive surge with tech solutions

FedEx is implementing strategies to ensure smooth operations during the busy festive shopping season throughout Asia Pacific (APAC), supported by a workforce of over 28,000 members in the region.

APAC stands as a significant player in the global e-commerce market, accounting for the largest share of business-to-consumer (B2C) and retail e-commerce, with expectations to comprise nearly two-thirds of the worldwide total by 2025. The festive shopping season spans from months leading up to Christmas until the Lunar New Year in 2025, with businesses and consumers gearing up for a surge in demand.

In response to this anticipated growth, FedEx is emphasising the importance of early planning to mitigate any delays caused by high demand during this peak period. "Avoiding last-minute surprises benefits everyone. During the peak season, high demand can impact delivery times, so ordering or shipping items earlier can help reduce stress," a representative said. They also underscored the importance of businesses notifying customers of last-order and final shipping dates to manage expectations and avoid disappointment.

Flexibility in delivery remains crucial as customer expectations evolve, particularly for faster and more adaptable delivery services. FedEx offers FedEx International Connect Plus (FICP) as a solution, providing economical shipping options between APAC, the United States, and Europe within one to three business days. "Consumers appreciate flexible delivery options like FedEx pickup locations and smart lockers, adding convenience when recipients aren't always home to receive packages," a spokesperson explained.

Technology plays a vital role in maintaining connectivity and service efficiency during the holiday rush. FedEx recommends utilizing AI-powered dashboards like FedEx Surround to provide businesses with real-time updates and proactive notifications, ensuring they are equipped to make timely interventions. Likewise, FedEx Delivery Manager International allows customers to customise delivery options, staying informed through real-time updates via email, text, or WhatsApp.

Managing the final stage of delivery effectively is key in APAC's varied delivery landscape. FedEx boasts an extensive network across 43 countries and territories in APAC with over 260,000 pickup locations, including smart lockers. "Businesses can leverage the extensive FedEx network... ensuring comprehensive local touchpoints," noted the company. Consumers benefit from these options, ensuring flexibility in receiving packages.

Sustainability is a growing concern, with businesses encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices. FedEx is active in this area, with 20% of its fleet in China now electric and nearly all FedEx-branded cardboard packaging being recyclable. "Businesses can also benefit from our cloud-based tool, FedEx Sustainability Insights, which estimates CO2e emissions at both the package and account levels," providing emission reports for eligible shipments, the company stated.

As the year-end demand approaches, FedEx advises thorough preparation to ensure both businesses and consumers navigate the season effectively. They emphasise the role of their global network and digital solutions in streamlining the holiday shipping process, offering fast, flexible, and sustainable options for all involved.