Norwegian postal operator Posten Norge has announced it delivered more parcels in 2021 than ever before, with 66 million parcels delivered and operating profits up by NOK102m (US$11.3m) from 2020 to a record NOK1,525m (US$107.2m).
According to the post, the rise in parcels was predominantly the result of increased e-commerce caused by the pandemic. “We delivered 66 million packages from online shopping, and we have shed light on how important goods deliveries are for a well-functioning society,” explained Tone Wille, CEO of Norway Post. “We expect continued growth in 2022 but at more normalized levels.”
Parcel growth from e-commerce was 21% in 2021, with the largest growth outside of Norway. The company’s international logistics business has had a good year, according to Wille, and contributed to growth and strengthened profitability. Toward the end of 2021, the sale of Frigoscandia Sweden (formerly Bring Frigo Sweden) was completed. However, in the mail segment, letter volumes continued to fall – addressed mail fell 11.3% and unaddressed mail fell 0.5% in 2021 compared with 2020.
The fourth quarter of 2021 also saw Norway Post and Bring’s new logistics center in Førde officially open, and a new terminal in Tromsø was put into operation. In Bergen, a new terminal is being planned. Over the next four years, Norway Post will invest NOK3-4bn (US$335-446m) in terminals and increased capacity in Norway to meet further growth in parcels and goods.
In 2021, the group also launched a new climate and environmental strategy with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement.
“We will implement a number of measures that provide significant CO2 cuts on the way to achieving net-zero emissions from the entire business by 2050, including emission-free distribution by 2030. As the first Nordic logistics player, Norway Post issued green bonds for NOK1bn [US$111m] in the fourth quarter. The money will be used to invest in green projects that provide long-term value for society and the people around us,” said Wille.