GLS Germany has opened a new premium parcel shop in Dortmund, intended to serve as a model for the future design of urban logistics locations. According to the company's statements, the site on Lindemannstraße combines digital service offerings, automated processes, and new spatial concepts.
Pilot project for city logistics
The site, which opened on October 31, 2025, is part of the strategic initiative "Last Mile Revolution." With it, GLS aims, according to its own statements, to make the last mile more efficient, more digital, and more sustainable. The premium parcel shop serves as a pilot project and a research center
for new technologies in delivery logistics.
Digital processing at the parcel shop
A central element of the site is a so-called Digital Parcel Kiosk. It enables customers to independently handle parcel transactions via digital terminals. Pickup, drop-off, and return shipping take place completely digitally, and the payment process is also processed without an external card reader via debit and credit cards or Apple Pay. According to GLS, this system is intended to speed up processes and reduce waiting times.
Expansion of the out-of-home network
Also part of the offering of the new site is an provider-open parcel station. This, according
to the company, can also be used by other delivery services. The station is integrated into GLS's existing Out-of-Home network, which in Germany currently comprises over 10,000 drop-off and collection points. The company plans to further expand this network to promote the use of alternative delivery options.
Automated processes in the depot
Parallel to the opening of the parcel shop, GLS is, for the first time, deploying autonomous transport robots at the nearby Dortmund depot. The so-called Automated Guided Vehicles autonomously transport packages weighing up to three kilograms. According to GLS, the systems operate quietly and space-saving and are intended
to make internal sorting more efficient.
Electric delivery in the city center
Delivery in Dortmund's city center is carried out, according to the company, with electrically powered cargo bikes. The combination of a digital parcel shop, automated depot processes, and emission-free delivery is intended to demonstrate how urban logistics locations can be networked in the future.
Insights for the international network
GLS describes the new site as a test field for digital and organizational innovations. The insights gained there are to be incorporated into the international expansion of the GLS network and serve as a basis for additional sites. (av)
