M&S taps Zalando ZEOS B2B logistics solution to boost retailer's European delivery network
Marks and Spencer has extended its partnership with Zalando through a new agreement with ZEOS, the fashion platform’s B2B logistics unit, to manage its entire direct-to-consumer online operation in continental Europe.
The move will cover 21 markets and build on M&S’s existing collaboration with Zalando Fulfilment Solutions, first established in 2022.
ZEOS, created in 2023 within Zalando SE, provides logistics and technology tools that enable brands and retailers to manage multi-channel e-commerce operations across Europe. Its infrastructure includes 12 logistics centres, around 20 returns sites, and more than 40 local transport providers.
Mark Lemming, Managing Director of International at M&S, says: “Having reset the International business to reshape M&S for global growth, we’re focusing on bigger, better partnerships, which enable us to bring the best of M&S to the world.”
Under the new arrangement, M&S will consolidate its Fashion, Home and Beauty stock into a single pool through ZEOS’s order management system. It claims the set-up is designed to reduce delivery times by up to three days and simplify returns, while cutting logistics costs by up to half.
Online sales momentum and international strategy
M&S has reported strong online growth in Europe, supported by its marketplace presence on platforms such as Zalando, About You and Amazon. In the last quarter, sales generated through Zalando were up 131% year on year.
Lemming adds: “Our partnership with Zalando supported us as we begun to scale our online growth over the last three years and now we’re taking the next step, leveraging ZEOS’ operational infrastructure to scale our online business in Europe further. This is a key strategic market where our trusted brand and stylish Fashion, Home & Beauty offer resonates with customers.”
The retailer expects the new ZEOS partnership to deliver up to a 30% uplift in total European online sales, supported by a capital light model that relies on strategic infrastructure partners rather than heavy investment in owned facilities.
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Online delivery was a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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