In an increasingly competitive and demanding ecosystem, Mercado Libre has invested in technology and the strategic expansion of its infrastructure to maintain its promise of ever-faster deliveries. In 26 cities in Mexico, the company delivers packages the same day a user makes a purchase.

With its own air network, predictive artificial intelligence, and specialized distribution centers , the company declared itself ready to face Hot Sale 2025, which will take place from May 26 to June 3.

In an interview with T21, Omar Ramírez , Senior Director of Logistics at Mercado Libre México, detailed how the company has transformed its logistics network to meet growing demand and deliver products on the same day , a milestone that combines cutting-edge technology, specialized infrastructure, and a hybrid logistics ecosystem.

“The 37% year-over-year growth would not be possible without technology that allows us to be more efficient from the moment we collect the product from the producer, through the delivery of the product to our centers, until it reaches the buyer,” Ramírez said.

One of the key developments is the use of artificial intelligence in its Receiving Center , which predicts demand and strategically allocates inventory across the country’s 12 distribution centers.

“This system has continuous learning, the famous Machine Learning, but not only that, it also predicts which products are sold or will be in greatest demand in different cities across the country. In such a way that in this product reception center, this system, which helps with artificial intelligence and optimization components, tells you which city in which fulfillment center, for example in León, Guadalajara, Monterrey or the Valley of Mexico, which is where we also distribute nationally, where to house that stock, where to put a certain number of SKUs and their depth in items to be able to meet future demand,” he explained.

This approach has allowed Mercado Libre to scale operations without losingdelivery speed, optimizing its ground network and reducing costs.

In February, the company opened a new 100,000 m2 distribution center in the State of Mexico , specifically designed for large-sized products. The facility stands out for its vertical utilization and automation, key elements for improving productivity.

The strategy is complemented by its own airline network, which already operates up to six flights daily during peak seasons.

“We’ve not only changed the aircraft model, we’ve also expanded airport coverage. Today, we’re reaching many more areas the next day,” Ramírez noted.

On the other hand, the last mile is served through more than 3,300 parcel delivery agencies distributed across thousands of neighborhoods, in addition to a flexible model called Mercado Envíos Extra , which allows individuals or family businesses to make deliveries and operate routes.

Omar Ramírez also highlighted the use of electric vehicles as part of a regional sustainability strategy.

“We have nearly a thousand vehicles circulating in Mexico, as well as in other Latin American countries, and all of them are part of our commitment to responsible operations,” he said.

What’s missing to go further?

Ramírez admitted that, although same-day deliveries are already available in 26 cities, there are still areas where the infrastructure to achieve this is lacking.

“We’re ready: we have the storage capacity, the systems, the drivers, and the vehicles. What’s needed are the conditions to bring that speed to more regions,” he concluded.

With this in mind, and with an eye toward Hot Sale 2025, Omar Ramírez assures that Mercado Libre is prepared to face peak demand without sacrificing its promise of fast, reliable, and sustainable delivery.

Comment and follow us on X: @jenna_GH_ / @GrupoT21

El cargo Mercado Libre accelerates its logistics network ahead of Hot Sale apareció primero en T21.

E-commerce has dominated Mexican shopping habits in recent years, with sustained growth of 26% in 2023, according to the Mexican Online Sales Association (AMVO). However, this trend has also evolved over time, incorporating tools that increasingly personalize the shopping experience.

Pierre-Claude Blaise, CEO of AMVO, highlighted during the panel “The Evolution of E-commerce” that Mexico has been the country with the highest e-commerce growth globally over the past five years. Nevertheless, he noted that “we are all still novices,” and there needs to be more focus on areas of opportunity.

Blaise also pointed out that at least 70 million Mexicans make an online purchase once a year, while 40% of people make a purchase weekly, making it imperative to provide users with a good shopping experience.

Although according to AMVO data, nine out of ten Mexicans are satisfied with their online shopping experience, companies and platforms are increasingly striving to personalize the shopping experience for their users.

Luis Pedraza, Commercial Director at Mercado Libre, stated that the yellow marketplace’s strategy is to always put the customer at the center of decisions.

“What we are looking for is how results are increasingly personalized, trying to meet customers’ needs and preferences. We started making adjustments in how we strategically order products, innovating in the algorithm,” he said.

He assured that they use tools like a video platform to show sellers what their product should contain and help convince consumers to purchase.

Sarahí Abraham, E-commerce Director at L’Oréal Mexico, pointed out that in the beauty world, the digital channel presents a challenge in convincing users to buy products.

“We need to understand that we have experienced buyers, but they might not be used to shopping online. We must find ways to engage, even through partnerships with platforms. But the challenge is convincing people who may not know much about the brand. We need to connect and build trust to encourage purchases,” she said.

She added that through data, they better understand users, which helps personalize the shopping experience and provide tools for their purchase.

She indicated that they use tools like virtual reality and augmented reality to assist customers in their purchasing decisions.

Additionally, experts noted that shopping trends continue to evolve, such as leveraging social media or using influencers.

Comment and follow us on X:@jenna_GH_ / @GrupoT21

El cargo Evolution of E-Commerce: Personalization as the Key Purchase Factor apareció primero en T21.

In a bold step towards the future of logistics operations, Mercado Libre has implemented new robotics solutions in its storage and distribution center in Cajamar, Brazil, according to Agustín Costa, Senior VP Shipping at Mercado Libre, through his LinkedIn account.

According to the executive, more than 100 robots are already operational, and it is expected that by the end of the year, the number will reach 330.

Each of these robots has the capacity to move up to 600 kilograms (kg) of items on the shelves, drastically accelerating the order process and increasing efficiency and productivity.

With a autonomy of eight hours and the ability to autonomously recharge their batteries, these robots ensure uninterrupted workflow, moving up to 2,500 shelves per day.

This technological advancement has a direct impact on storage, picking, and sorting times at each Mercado Libre center, resulting in a significant improvement in shipment agility.

Costa emphasized that the investment in this technology aims to further enhance user experience, recognizing the critical importance of delivery times and quality for buyers and sellers.

The work process of these robots includes product location, order preparation, sorting, packaging, and distribution by delivery area, ensuring efficient and accurate logistics operations.

With up to a 15% savings in storage space, this innovation is marking a turning point in the e-commerce industry.

Comment and follow us on X:@GrupoT21

El cargo Have Robots Taken Over Mercado Libre? Here’s What the Company Says apareció primero en T21.

Mercado Libre, an e-commerce platform, announced on Thursday advancements in its logistics network to ensure fast and efficient deliveries with the support of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across the entire Latin American region.

Omar Ramírez, Senior Fulfillment Director at Mercado Libre Mexico, emphasized that the company’s delivery logistics chain is a complex process involving over 90 facilities dedicated entirely to e-commerce, 24 cities in Mexico with same-day shipping, over 900 electric vans for last-mile delivery, nine distribution centers powered by renewable energy, among others.

“To reach the remote corners of the country, primarily in the southeast and northwest, the only way to deliver within 24 hours and in record time is through our air network. We have four planes with a capacity of 20 tons each, with its airport hub in Querétaro, strategically selected for its proximity to Mexico City and its logistical and economic development,” added Omar Ramírez.

He noted that they have incorporated electric vans, recyclable packaging, and other sustainable logistics practices.

Regarding the efficiency of its logistics chain, he indicated that they use AI, technology, and algorithms so that when reaching the last mile, the routes can be the most optimal.

He mentioned that they employ four logistic solutions, such as fulfillment, which is the stage of the supply chain involving all operations of custody, preparation, and shipment of customer orders.

Cross-docking, where Mercado Libre’s Meli service collects packages from sellers, and shipments are sorted to be sent to the buyer.

Flex or Self-service, where the seller provides logistics and Mercado Libre provides the technology; and finally, Drop Shipping or Drop off, where the seller dispatches the packages with the assigned carrier, and the carrier sends them to the buyer.

He also explained that they rely on strategic partnerships with leading transportation companies such as FedEx, DHL, and others to offer even faster delivery times.

“Fulfillment is our flagship solution. 72% of all Mercado Libre sales in Mexico go through it,” said Omar Ramírez.

In addition to their focus on speed and efficiency, Ramírez indicated that Mercado Libre is committed to environmental sustainability. With the introduction of a thousand electric vans in its transport fleet, the company aims to reduce its carbon footprint and promote more responsible logistics practices.

By 2024, they plan to significantly increase the number of electric vehicles in circulation and have their largest distribution center in the State of Mexico powered by renewable energy.

He explained that with these advancements and strategic partnerships, Mercado Libre is addressing the challenges of last-mile delivery, ensuring that their customers receive their products quickly, efficiently, and sustainably.

Omar Ramírez’s statements were made during the panel “Learn why e-commerce is the top choice during the Hot-Sale season,” where they explained the benefits and offers offered by the company, being the sponsor of this event during 2024.

Comment and follow us on X:  @GrupoT21

El cargo Marketplace logistics becomes more “green” and “smart” apareció primero en T21.

The e-commerce platform, Mercado Libre, has taken a significant step in its global expansion by opening its first distribution center (CEDIS) in the United States, as reported by Ariel Szarfsztejn, the company’s commerce president, through his LinkedIn account.

Strategically located in Texas, the CEDIS will allow Mercado Libre to connect US sellers and brands with buyers in Latin America, starting with Mexico.

With the ability to identify products with the “Ships from USA” label on its marketplace, “Mexican users can find products from the United States. They will receive them at their home within two business days after purchase,” explained Ariel Szarfsztejn.

The executive detailed that the company continues to advance in its expansion within the framework of its 25th anniversary. Likewise, he announced that this new step opens opportunities for brands and sellers from the neighboring northern country, inviting them to be part of the growth and reach of the marketplace in Latin America.

Additionally, within the goals of this e-commerce platform is the creation of 18,000 new jobs in Latin America, and by the end of 2024, they estimate having 76,000 direct and indirect jobs throughout the region, from independent sellers and small businesses to employees in areas such as logistics, technology, and customer service, so their expansion in the United States represents additional job opportunities in various sectors.

Likewise, aware of the potential of the Mexican market, the second most important in the region for Mercado Libre, in 2024 the company will invest $2.45 billion, a 48% growth compared to last year’s investment.

Comment and follow us on X: @GrupoT21

El cargo Mercado Libre is Strategically Expanding in the United States. apareció primero en T21.