En route to reusable packages: NWO funds Relabel it project
The rise of webshops and platform technology allows us to have the products we buy delivered at home in no time. However, the process generates a massive amount of waste. The ‘Relabel it…’ project, led by Stefano Fazi of TU Delft, aims to lead the transition toward an integrated system for flexible, reusable, and intelligent boxes. The project received funding from the Dutch Research Council (NWO).
Research on the role of delivery in repeat business
Shoppers are paying close attention to whether orders arrive when promised, how packages are handled and the experience at the doorstep. A survey published by Roadie finds that a poor delivery experience can have a direct impact on whether customers come back. 85% of respondents say that the condition of the package upon arrival is very influential. You can download the report after filling in your details.
EU customs reform enters into force
The European Commission (EC) reports that the EU Customs Reform has been published. Among other things, the new regulation establishes a handling fee for small parcels to cover the increasing costs customs authorities face when processing these low-value goods. The EU will start to apply it from November 2026 with a fixed amount. The amount is to be established by the EC.
European e-commerce reaches €911 billion
Ecommerce Europe and EuroCommerce have published the 2026 European E-commerce Report (light version, 1.99 MB). Total B2C European e-commerce turnover continued its steady growth and increased by 7% in 2025, rising from €842 billion to €911 billion. Taking inflation into account, real growth reached 4% for the total B2C e-commerce turnover.
NL: Retail turnover to rise by 3% in 2026
ING (in Dutch) expects the Dutch retail turnover to rise by 3% this year, which is in line with last year. Consumers are continuing to be cautious with their spending this year, meaning that growth remains modest despite improved purchasing capacity. Rising energy and fuel prices, combined with geopolitical tensions, are causing ongoing uncertainty.
US: New e-commerce trends emerge as 64% of shoppers adopt AI
Ryder has published its 12th annual benchmark study (15.98 MB) of US consumer online shopping behaviours, preferences, and expectations. Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping how consumers evaluate and select products, with 64% now using AI-assisted shopping tools.
AI in retail: the new consumer makes choices through the eyes of AI
An article (in Dutch) by ABN AMRO examines the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the retail sector. The rise of AI is having a major impact on this sector. Business owners who make smart use of AI are better informed, work more efficiently and make more informed decisions. At the same time, AI is changing consumers’ search and purchasing behaviour.
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