Enhancing customer experience: Why delivery & returns are make-or-break moments

10 September, 2025

E-Commerce

Discover five logistics innovations that are redefining customer experiences 

In today’s hyper-competitive e-commerce environment, logistics is no longer just an operational function—it’s a critical factor in shaping the overall shopping experience.

Consumers no longer judge brands solely on product quality or price. Instead, they expect fast, reliable and hassle-free delivery as standard. Latest global research by Asendia reveals that 41.46% of retailers have experienced customers express frustration over long delivery times, while 29.67% struggle with returns. 

With these statistics in mind, addressing logistics challenges is essential for delivering a superior customer experience (CX) and helping brands rise above the competition. 

So, how can brands improve? Here are five logistics innovations transforming the post-purchase journey—key strategies worth considering to position your brand at the cutting edge of CX.  

1. Smart tracking technologies

Smart tracking technologies provide real-time updates, reducing uncertainty and anxiety about delivery times. Businesses that implement these advanced solutions can reduce strain on customer service teams, allowing them to focus on providing a bespoke, personal service to customers where it matters most.


2. Local hubs & out-of-home fulfilment

With 69.83% of the retailers surveyed by Asendia citing rising shipping costs as a major concern, brands are seeking cost-effective alternatives that don’t compromise on customer satisfaction. 

By consolidating multiple parcels at a single location, local fulfilment hubs and out-of-home collection points are helping brands reduce the number of individual stops required. This not only reduces costs but provides customers with greater flexibility. 

3. Warehouse automation & efficiency

Given that 25.97% of retailers are planning to invest more in supply chain and inventory management solutions, ensuring warehouse efficiency is becoming increasingly crucial for e-commerce brands. 

From AI-driven inventory management to robotic picking and packing systems, today’s automation tools can enhance order accuracy, speed up fulfilment, and minimise operational costs.

4. Real-time problem resolution & live customer service

A frictionless experience doesn’t stop at order fulfilment—customer service plays a crucial role in CX. With 53.15% of retailers feeling pressured to meet shopper expectations for fast and convenient deliveries, live chat support, help desks and proactive problem resolution strategies ensure quick responses to delivery issues and customer queries. 

5. Delivery options for eco-conscious customers

Sustainability is an increasing priority for customers, with 41.16% of e-commerce retailers surveyed highlighting the pressure to meet sustainability standards. As a result, businesses are increasingly investing in carbon-neutral shipping, eco-friendly packaging and alternative delivery options such as out-of-home drop-off points. 

Offering these solutions better aligns with the values of eco-conscious consumers, creating a more tailored experience that keeps them coming back for more. 

Stay one step ahead with streamlined logistics

With so many options available to e-commerce retailers looking to enhance their returns and delivery options, one thing is certain: by prioritising these innovations, they can turn make-or-break moments into opportunities for lasting customer loyalty. Those that fail to meet expectations risk losing customers to competitors with more efficient delivery and return policies.

Asendia remains at the forefront of customer-centric logistics, leveraging cutting-edge technology to meet evolving e-commerce demands. With strategic investments in tracking, automation, local fulfilment and real-time support, Asendia is empowering brands to transform logistics into a competitive advantage.
 

Celebrating e-commerce’s top 10 CX innovators

Exceptional CX isn’t just a competitive advantage—it’s the foundation of sustainable e-commerce growth. That’s why our Global Retail Voices initiative is back for 2025, this time spotlighting the industry’s top CX innovators. This free e-book profiles customer experience champions who are making waves in the e-commerce space. 

Asendia_Global Retail Voices Customer Experience

Each of the 10 professionals profiled is delivering the kinds of leadership, impact and innovation that’s moving the world’s retail and e-commerce industries forward. Their innovative strategies are not only enhancing customer satisfaction, but also driving significant business growth, proving that a strong commitment to CX is a powerful competitive advantage.

As Marie Barrance, Sales Director at Asendia UK says:
"The individuals recognised in Global Retail Voices 2025 are pioneers in this space, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to customer-centric innovation. They understand that meeting and exceeding customer expectations is not just an option – it’s a necessity for sustained success. By putting their customers first, these industry leaders are setting new benchmarks for excellence. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and highlight the innovators shaping the future of e-commerce."


Global Retail Voices aligns perfectly with Asendia’s culture of constant improvement and celebrates the innovators who are shaping the future of retail. It’s essential reading for anyone interested in the cutting edge of retail innovation. 
Download your free copy today.
 

Download Global Retail Voices 2025 : Celebrating excellence in Customer Experience edition


 

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