GLS Courier and Logistics Services

General Logistics Systems B.V., widely known as GLS, is a major international parcel delivery service founded in 1999 following the acquisition of German Parcel by Royal Mail. While the brand has its roots in Germany through its predecessor, it was formally established as a streamlined European network under British ownership.

Today, GLS operates an extensive logistics network spanning Europe, North America, and Central Asia. The service coordinates a sophisticated system of localized hubs and distribution centers to facilitate cross-border and domestic shipping. Though it operates globally, its primary infrastructure remains centered in the Netherlands and Germany.

GLS is a wholly owned subsidiary of International Distributions Services (IDS), the parent company that also owns Royal Mail in the United Kingdom. This ownership structure positions GLS as the international growth engine of the group, focusing on parcel logistics outside the traditional UK postal market.