AliExpress, the international online retail marketplace of Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, is launching an hourly delivery service in London as it seeks to become a one-stop shop for local consumers in the UK.

Starting in July, customers in Greater London will be able to order packaged food, drinks and everyday household products via the AliExpress app, with same-day delivery.

Chinese food delivery company Hungry Panda is the first to launch its range of products on AliExpress, offering a curated collection of essentials, drinks, snacks and pantry staples, including Coca-Cola, instant noodles and toilet paper, now available for one-hour delivery,

AliExpress said it will expand the service to other UK cities later this year to meet the growing demand for fast delivery, seeking to position itself as a hub for both international and domestic purchases.

The platform said it is now looking to incorporate more UK-based local suppliers and businesses, which will be able to receive operational support and a discounted commission.

Bonnie Zhao, general manager at AliExpress UK, said the move reflects the firm’s commitment to providing an improved service to consumers while supporting local businesses.

“Local businesses and suppliers can connect with millions of shoppers on AliExpress and consumers can get faster shipping on a wider range of products,” she added.

Earlier this month, AliExpress opened warehouses and fulfilment centres in Europe to provide quicker delivery times for customers in the region.


Products stored in these European fulfilment centres will be dispatched through the Chinese retail giant’s new **Local+** channel.

The company states that orders placed via **Local+** will arrive within seven days, with free shipping and free returns included.

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