Summer Overtakes Christmas: Omniva Reports Record Parcel Volumes
Omniva, the leading logistics and parcel delivery group in the Baltics, is already recording a seasonal high in parcel volumes. In Lithuania alone, more than 1.3 million parcels are expected to be delivered in June, surpassing the results of last year’s Christmas peak. These figures reflect changes in e-commerce seasonality and consumer habits.
“Retailers are just as surprised as we are. Summer is typically a quieter period, but this year has proven different. A prolonged cold spring and successful sales campaigns have significantly boosted the e-commerce market. Unlike the weather, online shopping has heated up, and the peak has yet to come,” says Tadas Janulis, Head of Lithuania Country Sales at Omniva. He anticipates consistently high volumes in the coming weeks.
Seasonal Shipments: From Cosmetics to Sandals
In summer, the majority of parcels sent through parcel machines contain seasonal goods such as clothing, footwear, and cosmetics. According to Janulis, climate change is influencing shopping habits. Summer peaks are shifting, and winter shopping is extending over a longer period. Instead of a sharp spike in December, parcel volumes are now more evenly distributed throughout the season.
“Where Christmas used to dominate the year’s delivery volumes, we now see high consumer activity already in June and July. The market is becoming less predictable, and logistics must respond with greater agility,” he explains.
Increased Use of Parcel Lockers
A recent survey commissioned by Omniva and conducted by Havas shows that in the past 12 months, 88 percent of Lithuanians, 87 percent of Latvians, and 83 percent of Estonians have received at least one parcel. Parcel sending has increased steadily over the past four years, with the number of senders rising by about 10 percent.
“Parcel machines have become a routine choice, whether for purchasing new goods or participating in the secondhand market. They combine convenience with time savings,” says Janulis.
In 2023, Omniva delivered over 45 million parcels across the Baltics, including more than 14 million in Lithuania. The company recorded a 2 percent increase in overall volume.
Investing in Innovation
As part of its preparations for the winter peak season, Omniva is testing a more sustainable delivery model known as crowd delivery. This system allows not only professional couriers but also private individuals heading in the same direction as the parcel recipient to deliver packages. It has already been piloted in Latvia and Estonia and will soon launch in Lithuania.
“We aim to ensure fast and convenient delivery during peak periods while also avoiding excessive transportation. This model is expected to ease pressure during the holiday season and contribute to more sustainable logistics development,” Janulis explains.