AliExpress Went From 3-week Shipping to 1-hour Delivery in London

The service rolled out this month through the AliExpress app, letting customers order household essentials and get them delivered the same day. The company plans to bring this rapid delivery to other UK cities throughout 2025, according to information from retailtechinnovationhub.com.

Hungry Panda, already established as a grocery delivery service, became the first partner to offer products through this new system. Their selection includes daily necessities, drinks, snacks, and basic food items – exactly the stuff people need quickly rather than waiting weeks for international shipping.

Local Suppliers Get Priority Access

AliExpress has opened its platform to UK-based businesses, offering them simplified registration, direct operational support, and reduced commission rates. This local partnership strategy aims to build a network of suppliers who can fulfill orders rapidly from nearby warehouses.

The benefits extend beyond just hourly delivery. Items labelled “Local+” ship within three days maximum, covering bigger purchases like furniture, lighting fixtures, garden equipment, and kitchen appliances. These locally sourced orders have grown significantly over the past year, with bicycles, electronics, power stations, and tools leading sales.

Bonnie Zhao, who manages AliExpress UK operations, explains the shift: “Local businesses and suppliers can connect with millions of shoppers on AliExpress and consumers can get faster shipping on a wider range of products.”

Direct Challenge to Quick-Commerce Leaders

This move puts AliExpress head-to-head with established rapid delivery services like Getir, Gorillas, and Amazon’s quick delivery options. But AliExpress brings something different – massive product variety and competitive pricing that built their reputation in the first place.

The London launch appears to be a testing ground for broader European expansion. If successful, this model could reshape how people think about AliExpress – from a budget option requiring patience to a legitimate competitor in the convenience economy.

For now, Greater London residents can experience what might be the most dramatic shipping upgrade in e-commerce history. Going from three weeks to one hour delivery represents more than just operational improvement – it’s a complete business model transformation.