UPS Opens First China Retail Centers

UPS announced the opening of two UPS Express retail centers in Shanghai. This is the first retail endeavor launched by UPS in China.

The centers are located in key central business districts of Shanghai, one in the Shanghai Stock Exchange building and the other in the Shanghai Mart Convention Center. Both are owned and operated by UPS and offer extended operating hours to attract nearby businesses.

"UPS is committed to making its services not only the most reliable, but also the most convenient to businesses around the world," said Jerry Drisaldi, vice president of UPS Retail Services. "Our diverse network of 70,000 full service and drop-off locations enables us to support the overall growth of UPS around the globe through innovative concepts that best meet the needs of our customers."

The launch of the UPS Express centers is the latest in a series of strategic initiatives to expand UPS's operations and brand presence in China. In 2005, the company took direct control of its operations, serving more than 330 cities in China, which represent 85 percent of the country's international trade activity. UPS also expanded its air operations in China throughout 2006 and now flies to more points in China than any other U.S. airline, freight or passenger. The company also has grown its China workforce to more than 4,000 employees.

While UPS's efforts have mostly targeted the manufacturing sector, this latest move better positions UPS's global document and package delivery services within the financial and other service industries located in these thriving business districts.