The landscape of global commerce is undergoing a dramatic transformation as logistics giant UPS announces a suite of innovative services specifically designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) compete in international markets. These strategic moves align with UPS's broader transformation strategy focused on network investments, operational efficiency, and four key growth areas: SMEs, healthcare, e-commerce, and high-growth international markets.
Perfect Timing for Global Expansion
UPS executives emphasize the ideal timing of these initiatives, with global cross-border online sales projected to account for 20% of e-commerce by 2022. The opportunity is particularly significant in the United States, where over 99% of businesses currently don't engage in export activities.
"UPS remains committed to helping our customers grow and succeed while improving UPS network utilization and profitable growth," said UPS Chairman and CEO David Abney. "Our transformation, including technology-driven modernization of our network and technology platforms, is delivering significant enhancements to our product portfolio and customer experience."
Five Revolutionary Services for SME Success
1. UPS My Choice for Business: Logistics Control at Your Fingertips
Building on the success of its residential counterpart, UPS My Choice for Business provides SMEs with unprecedented control over their shipping experience. This enhanced platform addresses common SME challenges including budget constraints, time limitations, and lack of sophisticated logistics tools typically available to larger corporations.
Key features include:
- Real-time package tracking for complete supply chain visibility
- Flexible delivery address modifications to accommodate business needs
- Customizable delivery preferences for time and location specifications
- Personalized notifications for proactive logistics management
2. Expanded UPS Access Point Network: Solving the Last-Mile Challenge
UPS is dramatically expanding its Access Point network through partnerships with major retailers including CVS, Michaels, and Advance Auto Parts. The initiative will add up to 12,000 new locations in the coming months, bringing the U.S. total to 21,000 and the global count to 40,000.
This expansion offers SMEs:
- Higher delivery success rates by avoiding missed deliveries
- Reduced logistics costs through consolidated last-mile delivery
- Expanded service options for customer pickup and returns
3. UPS Worldwide Economy: Affordable Global Shipping
Designed specifically for cost-conscious SMEs, this new slower but more economical international shipping option initially launches in the U.S., Canada, China, Hong Kong, and the U.K., with plans for broader global expansion.
"We understand that SMEs often focus on the 'first mile' of delivery," explained a UPS spokesperson. "This low-cost service makes that first mile more accessible and affordable for them."
4. UPS Extended Hours Pickup: Accelerated Delivery Timelines
Beginning January 1, 2020, UPS will implement seven-day pickup and delivery services, expanding its current Saturday operations to include Sunday options. This enhancement leverages UPS's existing network, Access Point locations, and SurePost partnership with the U.S. Postal Service.
"This service will provide businesses with greater flexibility and faster delivery times," said UPS Chief Marketing Officer Kevin Warren.
5. UPS Flight Forward: Pioneering Drone Delivery in Healthcare
UPS's new drone subsidiary initially focuses on hospital networks, building on its successful partnership with Matternet for medical sample transport between WakeMed hospital facilities in North Carolina.
"This isn't about delivering ice cream to your doorstep," a UPS representative noted. "We're talking about critical medical deliveries that previously took 15-30 minutes by ground transport now being completed in minutes by drone."
The company has applied for FAA Part 135 certification, which would allow nationwide expansion of medical drone deliveries without operational limitations.
Transforming Global Commerce for SMEs
These comprehensive service innovations demonstrate UPS's commitment to leveling the playing field for small and medium businesses in international trade. By reducing costs, simplifying processes, and expanding delivery options, UPS is helping SMEs overcome traditional barriers to global market access.