Engen launches DHL service at stations across Africa

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The project, which will pilot at four service stations in Windhoek, will then be rolled out in phases. Botswana, Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya and Tanzania are earmarked for the second phase.

Consumers will also be able to take advantage of the courier company's new product offering, Express Easy, at the service station outlets. This provides an easy way to send documents or parcels, as consumers can choose an envelope or one of seven box sizes at a fixed price for that size, rather than paying a rate based on the weight of the parcel.

Sumesh Rahavendra, head of marketing for DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, welcomed the news, saying that it would have a great impact on consumers across the continent.

"The express logistics industry and specifically retail services for consumers and SMEs are becoming important in Africa. For us to service this market better and open up global opportunities for students, small business owners and general consumers, we needed to both increase access to our express products but, simultaneously, make it easier and more affordable to use them. Engen is therefore an obvious partner; it is not only a solid African business but also has an extensive retail network across the continent, which can benefit consumers."

"As one of Africa's leading energy companies, we consistently look for ways to deliver on our brand promise of 'With us you are Number One'," said Nangula Hamunyela, MD of Engen in Namibia "This partnership means that we can extend our capabilities and give our customers the access and affordability around express services that they need."