Weekly News 20250324

Rising Logistics Costs Prompt Policy Changes in German E-commerce

1. Increase in Shipping Costs

Over the past two years, the average shipping cost among Germany's top 100 online retailers has risen by 12%, escalating from €3.92 in 2022 to €4.39 by the end of 2024. This surge is primarily attributed to escalating logistics expenses, including higher energy and labor costs.

2. Amazon Germany Introduces Paid Packaging Return Policy

In an effort to reduce packaging waste and traffic, Amazon Germany has implemented a fee for customers opting for packaging box returns. Depending on the return method, fees range from €1.95 (drop-off) to €2.95 (Hermes pickup). This policy shift reflects a broader trend among retailers to manage rising operational costs and environmental concerns.

Exploring the Future of Garden Design at spoga+gafa 2025

1. Focus on 'Design Gardens'

The upcoming Spoga+Gafa 2025, scheduled from June 24 to 26 in Cologne, will center around the theme 'Design Gardens'. This focus emphasizes aesthetic and innovative designs for modern garden spaces, terraces, and balconies, highlighting how design integrates ideas, function, and form, reflecting cultural values and promoting sustainability and efficiency. baumarktmanager.de

2. Emerging Trends in Outdoor Spaces

Key trends shaping current and future outdoor areas include homely, timeless designs, resource conservation, creative lightness, and versatility. These trends aim to create comfortable, sustainable, and adaptable green living environments. baumarktmanager.de

3. New Features at Spoga+Gafa 2025

This year's event will introduce several new features:

• Boulevard of Trends & Ideas: A central hub showcasing the latest trends and innovations in the garden and BBQ sectors.baumarktmanager.de

• POS Green Solution Island: Offering exciting solutions for point-of-sale applications.baumarktmanager.de

• Start-up Square: A platform where young companies can present their business ideas to an international audience.baumarktmanager.de

• IVG Garden Boulevard: Providing IVG members an opportunity to present themselves in a straightforward and compact format, similar to the DIY Boulevard at the Hardware Fair.baumarktmanager.de

These additions aim to foster innovation and provide valuable networking opportunities within the green industry.

Source of information: Trends der Spoga & Gafa 2025

♻️ Stylish, Sustainable – Explore Our New Arrivals!

We’re excited to introduce our latest Garbage Bin Box series, combining modern aesthetics with eco-friendly, durable materials – designed to elevate outdoor living while standing up to the elements. From UV-printed wood-look panels to translucent PMMA doors, our bins are as smart as they are functional.

🔋 Built to last

🌱 Eco-conscious construction

🏡 Perfect for modern gardens & public spaces

🤝 You're Invited! Meet Us at Spoga+Gafa 2025 – Hall 9 C040

We’re excited to share that over 30 groups of clients have already confirmed appointments to explore our latest smart, eco-friendly outdoor storage solutions at Spoga+Gafa 2025!

💡 Whether you're a garden product retailer, distributor, or project partner, we warmly welcome you to visit our booth and discover new ideas in smart parcel boxes, modular garbage bin systems, and garden storage innovations.

🎫 We offer free visitor pass codes upon request — contact us now and let’s meet in Cologne!

📍 Booth No.: Hall 9 C040 

🗓️ Date: 24–26 June 2025 

📮 Email: [email protected]