UPS Expands Network Through Acquisition of Happy Returns Locations

by Mindy Cohn

The UPS acquisition of Happy Returns will make hassle-free returns more widely available for consumers at exactly the right time, given the tremendous increase in returns reported by BoroPark24 here.

Happy Returns is a U.S.-based software and reverse logistics company that enables frictionless, no-box, no-label returns for merchants and consumers. In a few simple steps, users can access a returns portal, make a box-free return at the location that is most convenient to them, and have their items shipped, sorted, and returned to the merchant. With more than 800 merchant customers, Happy Returns has a strong track record of providing hassle-free, no-box returns, reducing the cost of e-commerce for all players, and creating a more efficient, sustainable supply chain.

Brick-and-mortar merchants like Petco, Staples, and Ulta Beauty host Happy Return Bar locations within their stores and offer box-free returns. Customers bring the item they wish to return with a barcode to the location of their choice, and the retailer boxes and ships the return for processing. 

"We know that returns have long frustrated shoppers and retailers looking for quick and easy solutions," UPS CEO Carol B. Tomé said in the company's press release sharing the news. "By combining Happy Returns' easy digital experience and established drop-off points with UPS's small package network and footprint of close to 5,200 UPS store locations, box-free, label-free returns will soon be available at more than 12,000 convenient locations in the U.S."

UPS is already one of the world's largest companies, with a 2022 revenue of $100.3 billion, providing a broad range of integrated logistics solutions. 

"Joining the UPS team is a win for both our employees and our customers," said Happy Returns CEO and co-founder David Sobie, who will continue to lead the business for UPS after the deal closes. "In recent years, the growth of Happy Returns has accelerated, and we've built an enterprise-grade solution. This new chapter is a natural next step for Happy Returns and allows us to harness the power of the UPS network to transform the returns industry."

Given that 90% of Americans live within a ten-mile radius of a Happy Return Bar network, the recently announced acquisition by UPS of over 10,000 box-free locations is welcome news. Not only are consumers benefiting from the acquisition, but merchants will benefit as well during a time when consumers are making purchasing decisions based on the ease and convenience of a merchant's return policy.