Russia's Pickup Points Surge 44.7% Annually

The scale of expansion in Russia's pickup network is best illustrated by the numbers. Over the course of a single year, the number of working facilities increased by 44.7%, culminating in a total of 226,400 points as of January 1, 2026. This represents a dramatic acceleration compared to the previous period, which saw a more modest growth rate of 25.9%.

The surge indicates a strategic pivot by major platforms, moving beyond major metropolitan areas to establish a physical presence in a wider array of locations. This rapid deployment of infrastructure is a direct response to the growing demand for convenient, accessible pickup options across the country's vast geography.

The key drivers behind this expansion include:

• Aggressive expansion into smaller population centers
• Opening of new pickup points based on existing Russian Post offices
• Increased partnership activity between marketplaces and local businesses
• A strategic shift to capture market share in underserved regions

The primary catalyst for this infrastructure boom is the expansion of platforms into smaller population centers. By extending their reach beyond major cities, marketplaces are tapping into new customer bases and increasing the accessibility of e-commerce for millions of Russians living in regional areas. This move is crucial for long-term market penetration and customer loyalty.

Another significant factor is the integration with Russian Post infrastructure. Opening pickup points on the basis of existing post office branches allows for a rapid and cost-effective rollout. This synergy leverages a well-established network, reducing the logistical challenges of building a new network from scratch and ensuring a presence in even the most remote locations.

The expansion is primarily driven by platforms moving into smaller population centers and opening points based on Russian Post offices.

Despite the impressive growth figures, the market shows signs of approaching a inflection point. Projections for the remainder of 2026 suggest that the pace of expansion will become more modest. This anticipated slowdown is not due to a lack of opportunity, but rather emerging challenges that platforms must navigate.

One of the primary hurdles is the increasing difficulty in attracting new partners. As the most lucrative and accessible locations for pickup points are claimed, marketplaces must work harder to find and secure viable partners for further expansion. This process is becoming more complex and resource-intensive.

Furthermore, the broader economic context is shifting. The rate of consumer activity growth is decelerating, which naturally impacts the demand for new pickup infrastructure. As consumer spending stabilizes, the urgency for platforms to rapidly deploy new points may diminish, leading to a more measured and strategic approach to growth in the coming year.

The data paints a clear picture of a market in a phase of rapid maturation. The 44.7% annual growth in pickup points underscores the intense competition and strategic importance of physical logistics networks in the Russian e-commerce sector. This infrastructure is no longer a convenience but a core component of the customer experience.

Looking ahead, the focus is likely to shift from sheer quantity to optimization and efficiency. With the initial wave of expansion into smaller towns and post office integrations largely complete, the next phase will involve refining operations, improving last-mile delivery, and managing the challenges of a potentially slower-growing consumer market. The year 2026 will be a test of resilience and strategic planning for all major players in the space.