A strategic move aligned with e-commerce transformation, combining consumer expectations, last kilometre efficiency and low-emission transport

XPO Logistics, a leading provider of innovative and sustainable end-to-end logistics solutions across Europe, has announced the opening of a new strategic hub in Annecy to support strong growth in last-mile deliveries and strengthen customer proximity. The new site is a response to a structural transformation in the sector. In the last 30 years, e-commerce has shifted from small parcels to bulky goods, which has had a profound impact on consumer expectations. Home delivery of furniture, electrical goods or high-tech equipment is no longer the exception, but the norm, requiring more responsive, sustainable and local logistics. 

In a context of strong commercial momentum, XPO Logistics´ last-mile delivery operations in France have witnessed an 11% increase in orders placed between 2023 and 2025. The company has embarked on an ambitious organic growth trajectory, targeting 15% per annum over the same period - a target that has already been exceeded, reflecting the strength of its business model and the confidence of its customers.

Annecy, the local hub of its last-mile strategy

The new Annecy site is a hub dedicated entirely to last-mile operations. With 2,600 sqm allocated to final delivery, this new location strengthens the company’s operational capacity in a rapidly growing area. The site already employs ten people directly, including forklift truck operators, drivers and other operatives, and has a fleet of two 19-tonne and 12-tonne HGVs and 15 light vehicles, 14 of which are electric. This provides six-day-a-week coverage.  
This local logistics service is based on advanced digital tools, including real-time tracking, personalised delivery slots and customer notifications. It also uses cutting-edge technologies such as intelligent planning and the latest generation of mobile terminals for tracking flows.   
 
Frédéric Aziron, Director of Palletised Distribution and Last Mile – France, XPO Logistics, said: "Having been anchored in Haute-Savoie for several years, we are reinforcing our growth strategy at the heart of this dynamic region by bringing our operations closer to end consumers. This new site demonstrates our capacity to collaborate with leading partners such as IKEA, with whom we share a commitment to optimising service quality while reducing our carbon footprint. Together, we are speeding up the transformation of logistics systems to meet constantly changing demand.”

24-48 hour deliveries for heavy and bulky goods

The Annecy hub is part of XPO Logistics' national palletised distribution network, which can deliver pallets anywhere in France within 24-48 hours, before their final delivery to a room of choice. This dual capability - industrial power and local agility - enables rapid distribution throughout the country, including sparsely populated areas that are often poorly served by exclusively urban models. This is a key factor in supporting the sustained growth of major customers such as IKEA, whose business has far exceeded initial forecasts. The network also benefits from broader European capabilities through XPO Logistics’ Connect Europe solution. 
 
In France, the last kilometre accounts for up to 20% of the total supply chain cost and 30% of CO₂ emissions in urban areas*. To address these challenges, XPO Logistics is introducing electric vehicles, gas-powered trucks and cyclologistics solutions in major cities. Beyond reducing emissions, this shift also brings tangible benefits for residents, including less noise and fewer disruptions, resulting in more peaceful and liveable urban environments. 
 
Underpinning this operational approach is a broader vision: to create a more carbon-free logistics space in the city of tomorrow, with intra-urban hubs that can reduce distances and pollution. This approach to continuous adaptation is also reflected in the development of the company’s services. To meet the new standards of commerce and e-commerce, XPO Logistics offers:

• Delivery, installation and commissioning of bulky products such as furniture, household appliances and high-tech equipment.
• Night-time delivery to maximise product availability at the point of sale as soon as it opens.
• Management of returns and reverse flows, for a more efficient circular economy. 
• 
  A unique network synergy, combining national strength and local agility.

Thanks to its key location and growth that has already exceeded forecasts, XPO Logistics is strengthening its leading role in transforming logistics in France. The company intends to continue developing while consolidating its commitment to creating a more sustainable, resilient and consumer-focused value chain. 

* Source: ADEME "Le dernier kilomètre urbain" study