ZigZag and VintedGo: The Impact on Reverse Logistics

As consumers increase their online shopping, the demand for a strong post-purchase and returns network has grown.

Now, businesses are not just judged on how quickly they can deliver to the consumer, but also how straightforward it is for the consumer to send back unwanted items.

In response, ZigZag has announced a strategic partnership with VintedGo to meet the demand for simple returns logistics.

Changing processes

ZigZag is a software solution dedicated to helping eCommerce retailers with domestic and global returns, operating across more than 170 countries with a global network of more than 200 warehouses. It offers best-in-class technology to allow for a simple and efficient post-purchase and returns experience. Through its operations, it aims to reduce cost and waste, as well increase the profits and sustainability of its clients.

Now, it is undertaking a strategic partnership with Vinted Go, the logistics branch of Vinted Group which is dedicated to affordable, convenient and sustainable shipping operations. Its network of pick-up and drop-off points was launched in order to make delivery more efficient for its members. It facilitates the distribution of millions of parcels each year, with a focus on developing seamless shipping solutions across Europe.

According to a report from Bain, 19.3% of internet purchases are anticipated to be returned, with Gen Z shoppers acting as the highest demographic with 7.7 online returns every year. 

What consumers are expecting of a returns process has changed with the increase in online spend, with 71% of consumers saying they are less likely to make a repeat purchase from a retailer if they have had a poor returns experience. 

As a result, it is necessary that businesses form straightforward and connected returns networks, in order to maintain consumer satisfaction and secondary purchasing.

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Meeting demand

The partnership between ZigZag and Vinted Go represents the expansion of ZigZag's European footprint and means that retail clients can offer shoppers access to more than 14,0000 out-of-home drop-off points across France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Portugal. This is beneficial to both companies, as it provides ZigZag with a wider network base and drives Vinted Go usage through ZigZag's platform.

It marks a strategic decision, following ZigZag's data revelation that retailers using its platform saw a 35% increase in locker-based return drop-offs during peak season. This shows a rising consumer demand for out-of-home returns. 

“We are delighted to partner with ZigZag to open up Vinted Go’s out-of-home network of parcel lockers and parcel shops to retailers using the ZigZag platform," says Nerijus Mazėtis, Director of Product at Vinted Go.

"We share a strong commitment to reducing the impact of logistics, and this partnership enables fast and cost-efficient returns across our network. The ZigZag team has been great to work with, and the integration has been seamless.”

Increasing convenience

The partnership increases ZigZag's out-of-home capabilities, including automated parcel lockers or manned parcel shops. It increases convenience and addresses the growing consumer demand for logistics that works around them – particularly as many of the lockers operate 24/7, meaning that it fits easily around work schedules.

“Vinted Go is an ideal option for our retailers. As more and more retailers start charging for returns, consumers will expect more from the experience," explains Gavin Sarjeant, Head of Network Development at ZigZag.

"That means hassle-free, local options that they can use on the way to the shops, work or school. By connecting retailers to Vinted Go’s extensive parcel locker and parcel shop network, we can offer more convenient return options that meet the expectations of modern consumers and help retailers operate more efficiently.”

Though Vinted Go's network was originally built to support the growing demand of the C2C market, ZigZag is able to offer its retailers a developed cost-efficient returns channel which increases customer convenience and lowers overall logistics costs.

OOH return options are increasingly attractive to consumers, due to their minimal queueing times, extended availability and greater convenience. This partnership now means expanded options for even more customers, meaning that reverse logistics is becoming more straightforward than ever.