DPD launches incubator for last mile start-ups

The incubator will seek to spot and fast track new ideas and solutions that can help DPD with the last mile, which has proven very challenging for all delivery companies.

The accelerator is open to startups/teams at any stage with solutions for DPD that fit one of the following four categories:

• Doorstep smiles

• Data use

• Operational efficiency

• Wild card

Each team gets:

• £12,500 initial investment, equity negotiable.

• Access to DPD proprietary technology (platforms, APIs etc).

• Mentorship from the DPD team.

• Mentorship from the L Marks network of leading entrepreneurs and investors.

• Dedicated office space in London.

• Workshops and talks hosted by DPD and L Marks partners.

• Access to up to £100,000 follow-on investment, equity negotiable.

• The chance to secure a contract to supply DPD.

Automated solution

In December DPD confirmed that building work on its £100m parcel hub at Hinckley Commercial Park, Leicestershire was completed ahead of schedule.

The hub will increase DPD’s parcel capacity by over 65%, creating 1,000 permanent jobs this year.

The building itself is 470 metres long and 40 metres wide with 264 loading dock doors, while the site in total covers 32 acres. The building also includes 6,790 sq m of mezzanine split over two levels with 624 sq m of office space.

Beumer is on-site installing the automated sortation system that will run the length of the building.