GLS Germany has opened a new Premium Parcel Shop in Dortmund, which is intended to serve as a model for the future design of urban logistics locations.
Pilot project for city logistics
The site, opened on October 31, 2025, is part of the strategic initiative 'Last Mile Revolution.' With it, GLS says it aims to make the last mile more efficient, digital, and sustainable. The Premium Parcel Shop serves as a pilot project and research center for new technologies in delivery logistics.
Digital processing in the parcel shop
A central element of the
site is a so-called Digital Parcel Kiosk. This 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
The offering of the new site also includes a carrier-agnostic parcel station. According to the company, this 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 acceptance points. The company plans to further expand this network to promote the use of alternative delivery options.
Automated processes in the depot
In parallel with 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 using electrically powered cargo bikes. The combination of a digital parcel shop, automated depot processes, and emission-free delivery is intended to show 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 further locations.
