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The Swiss Post intends to acquire the two Swiss logistics companies Quickmail and Quickpac. Particularly due to the continuously declining letter volumes and the intense competition in the parcel market, the two companies can no longer exist independently. They have actively sought buyers. With the acquisition, the Post can ensure the continuation of services for customers, and it can leverage existing synergies as well as better utilize its logistics.
(Bern/St. Gallen) The volume of letters is steadily declining due to digitalization. Moreover, the parcel market in Switzerland is highly competitive, and costs are high compared to Europe. For these reasons, Quickmail Holding AG, with its core companies Quickmail AG (letter business) and Quickpac AG (parcel business), has incurred sustainable losses. Since the independent continuation of the holding is no longer financially feasible, the previous shareholders have decided not to invest further and to exit the business. They have actively sought buyers.
Ensuring Stability for Customers
Subject to the approval of the WEKO, the Post intends to acquire Quickmail Holding AG 100%. It has signed a corresponding contract. “A large part of the customers of Quickmail and Quickpac are also our customers, from the Post. If we take over the two companies Quickmail and Quickpac, we can ensure stability for these customers and guarantee the continuation of services,” explains Johannes Cramer, Head of Logistics Services at the Post. Through the acquisition, the Post can also leverage synergies and better utilize its logistics capacities. Cramer sees another opportunity: “Quickpac delivers parcels exclusively with electrically powered delivery vehicles. This fits perfectly into our ambitious sustainability strategy at the Post.”
Independent Future Not Possible
Marc Erni, Chairman of the Board of Quickmail Holding AG, assesses the situation: “On one hand, there are the declining letter volumes and the intense competition in the Swiss parcel market, and on the other hand, there are very high operating costs. Under these conditions, an independent future for our holding is no longer possible.” He adds: “Thanks to the acquisition by the Post, we can continue to provide the usual services for all customers. With the sale to the Post, we gain a strong partner that can continue the business or integrate it into larger structures.”
WEKO Must Approve
The acquisition is currently under review by the WEKO. Subject to the pending WEKO decision, the Post is examining how and in what form the companies could be continued or integrated within the Post. The parties involved have agreed to keep the details of the purchase confidential.
Title graphic: © Quickmail
