Royal Mail and GLS: A Leading Postal and Delivery Services Company in the UK and Europe

International Distribution Services Plc (IDS), a company with a rich history dating back over five centuries, is a key player in the postal and logistics industry. Headquartered in London, IDS is best known for its two primary segments: Royal Mail and General Logistics Systems (GLS). These divisions enable the company to provide a wide range of postal and parcel delivery services both within the UK and across Europe.

Royal Mail: A UK Staple

The Royal Mail division is the cornerstone of IDS. As the UK’s national postal service, Royal Mail plays a crucial role in collecting, sorting, and delivering letters and parcels throughout the country. With a long-established network, it ensures that even the most remote areas of the UK are connected. Over the years, Royal Mail has adapted to the changing market, focusing increasingly on parcel delivery due to the growing demand from online retail. Despite challenges in the industry, Royal Mail remains a vital service for millions of UK citizens and businesses alike.

General Logistics Systems: A European Network

While Royal Mail serves the UK, the General Logistics Systems (GLS) segment operates primarily on the European continent. GLS provides deferred parcel delivery services, relying on a ground-based network that stretches across multiple countries in Europe, including the Republic of Ireland. This division enables IDS to offer cross-border logistics solutions, catering to the needs of businesses and individuals requiring efficient and reliable parcel delivery. With a focus on growth, GLS is continuously expanding its reach and improving its service offering to stay competitive in the European logistics market.

A Legacy of Over 500 Years

The origins of IDS can be traced back to 1516, when the company was first founded in London. Over the centuries, it has evolved alongside the UK’s communication and logistics needs. Today, IDS continues to adapt to modern challenges, including the digital shift in communication and the increasing demand for parcel deliveries driven by e-commerce. This long-standing history provides the company with a strong foundation, allowing it to maintain its position as a leader in the postal and delivery sectors.