InPost Becomes UK’s Third-Largest Courier With Yodel Acquisition

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InPost’s acquisition of Yodel marks a significant shift in the UK’s parcel delivery industry. The Polish-founded logistics company, recognized for its wide network of automated parcel machines, has confirmed a strategic takeover of Yodel, one of the country’s largest independent carriers. The acquisition positions InPost as a major player in the British market by integrating scalable locker solutions with a well-established home delivery network.

The merger reflects a broader trend in last-mile logistics: a convergence of flexible, technology-driven delivery options with conventional infrastructure. Following this acquisition, InPost’s UK market share has risen to approximately 8 percent.

A tale of two logistics providers, one ascendant, one stabilized

Founded in 1999 by Rafał Brzoska, InPost has evolved into a leading logistics brand across Europe. In Poland, it works with more than 52,000 retailers and holds a 45 percent market share. Its UK operations began more recently but have expanded rapidly through partnerships and acquisitions.

Yodel, meanwhile, had struggled with financial pressures. In early 2024, it was nearing administration and explored a potential rescue through a merger with Shift. When that deal fell through, Yodel secured an £85 million funding package in August and restructured its ownership in the process. InPost has since acquired a 95.5 percent stake in Judge Logistics Ltd., Yodel’s parent company. PayPoint retains a 4.5 percent minority share.

Strategic priorities and operational synergies drive the deal

InPost has described the acquisition as central to its plan to scale UK operations and offer broader services. The integration of Yodel’s home delivery strengths with InPost’s locker network introduces a hybrid delivery model that combines convenience with capacity.

Yodel’s network processed around 191 million parcels in 2023, supported by a workforce and fleet capable of meeting high-volume, last-mile demands. InPost brings a complementary out-of-home network, including 10,000 parcel lockers and more than 18,000 pick-up points across the UK.

To support the expansion, InPost has committed to investing £1 billion in the UK by 2029. This includes developing new logistics centers and expanding its locker network, with an expected addition of up to 12,000 jobs.

The implications of this acquisition extend well beyond the two companies. Retailers can benefit from increased delivery options, improved reliability, and access to an integrated system that blends home delivery with automated solutions. For consumers, the result is greater flexibility and convenience.

In a market historically led by Royal Mail and Evri, InPost’s growth introduces new competition. Its approach, built on automation, customer choice, and infrastructure investment, signals a new phase in UK logistics.

Sources:

• Motor Transport
• The Guardian