Evri, one of the UK’s most recognisable parcel delivery companies, wasn’t always known by that name.
Formerly operating as Hermes UK, the company underwent a major rebrand in 2022 to signal a fresh direction and renewed commitment to customer service, sustainability, and innovation.
This transformation wasn’t just cosmetic it reflected significant operational and strategic changes.
In this blog, we explore what Evri was called before, why the rebrand happened, and how it has reshaped the parcel delivery landscape in the UK.
What Was Hermes Called Before Rebranding to Evri?
Before Evri became a household name in UK parcel delivery, the company operated under a series of different names as it evolved over nearly five decades.
It all started in 1974 with Grattan Mail Order, a home delivery division based in Bradford, Yorkshire.
This early operation focused on delivering catalogues and orders for Grattan, one of the leading mail order businesses at the time.
By 1999, the company had undergone a significant transformation. Grattan merged its delivery services with Freeman’s Catalogue Company to form Parcelnet, an infrastructure dedicated to handling growing parcel volumes in an increasingly digital marketplace.
Parcelnet adapted quickly to the shift towards online shopping, and its investment in delivery tracking technology in 2004 was a pivotal step in building customer trust.
The name Hermes Parcelnet Ltd was introduced in 2008. This rebrand reflected a closer alignment with Hermes Germany and helped the company present a unified identity across Europe.
Hermes UK operated under this name for more than a decade, during which it expanded its courier network, introduced drop-off ParcelShops, and secured partnerships with major retail clients.
The name Hermes became synonymous with low-cost delivery solutions in the UK, particularly for consumers and small businesses.
In March 2022, Hermes officially rebranded to Evri, marking a new phase in its corporate journey.
Why Did Hermes Rebrand to Evri?
Rebuilding Reputation Through Rebranding
Hermes had grown into one of the largest parcel delivery firms in the UK, particularly during the eCommerce boom.
However, its reputation suffered due to frequent customer complaints, poor delivery experiences, and concerns about courier welfare.
These issues were amplified by media coverage and social media discussions that painted Hermes as a low-cost but unreliable service.
To move forward, the company recognised the need to rebuild trust. A rebrand offered a way to publicly signal a new beginning while leaving behind a damaged legacy.
By adopting a new identity as Evri, the company could separate itself from past issues and focus on improvements without the baggage associated with the Hermes name.
Aligning the Brand with a New Vision
The decision to rebrand was more than cosmetic. It was part of a long-term transformation strategy developed with the support of Advent International, the private equity firm that invested in Hermes UK in 2020.
This transformation plan focused on improving every area of the business from customer service to environmental impact.
The rebrand to Evri aligned with:
- A new company vision to lead in responsible delivery experiences
- A renewed mission to make parcel delivery simple, accessible, and sustainable
- An evolving customer base with higher expectations around service and transparency
Through this lens, the rebrand wasn’t just about changing how the company looked; it was about redefining how it operated and what it stood for in a competitive logistics landscape.
Distancing from Legacy Challenges
Rebranding to Evri allowed the business to distance itself from past controversies associated with the Hermes name. Some of these challenges included:
- Poor customer support response times
- Negative feedback from both senders and recipients
- Criticism of courier pay and working conditions
With a clean slate, Evri was able to reintroduce itself to the public and business clients with new values and a visible commitment to service improvement.
What Does the New Name “Evri” Mean?
The name “Evri” is intended to be inclusive and flexible. It’s a modern spelling of “every,” signifying that the company serves every person, every parcel, everywhere.
This name was carefully selected to reflect the company’s commitment to diversity, accessibility, and reach.
Evri’s branding also supports its updated company vision and mission. The vision is to lead the way in responsible delivery experiences for everyone, everywhere, while its mission focuses on making parcel delivery simple, affordable, and sustainable.
Core brand values were also refreshed as part of this rebranding initiative. These values include doing the right thing for customers, being dynamic and innovative, embracing cost efficiency, and consistently delivering high service standards.
The use of vibrant branding, clear messaging, and a customer-first identity all contribute to making Evri feel more modern and adaptable than its predecessor.
When Did the Hermes to Evri Rebrand Happen?
The rebrand officially took place in March 2022, following a period of internal planning and transformation. This was not an overnight change.
In the lead-up to the rebrand, Evri prepared its network, customer communication channels, and corporate identity for the transition.
Key changes included:
- A complete redesign of the company’s logo and colour scheme
- Replacement of Hermes-branded vehicles with Evri branding
- Courier uniforms rebranded to match the new identity
- Updated website, mobile apps, and digital tools
The rebrand was timed to coincide with broader improvements in service performance, courier support, and infrastructure investment, ensuring that the new name represented more than just a cosmetic upgrade.
What Has Changed Since Hermes Became Evri?
Operational Improvements and Infrastructure Investment
One of the most notable changes post-rebrand was the level of investment in infrastructure and operations. Evri has worked to scale its delivery network while improving efficiency and service quality. It has:
- Increased its courier workforce to over 20,000
- Opened new facilities, including the environmentally advanced Barnsley Superhub
- Rolled out new delivery vehicles, including low-emission and biomethane-powered trucks
These changes have helped improve parcel handling speed, reduce environmental impact, and support a growing volume of deliveries.
Enhanced Customer Experience and Digital Tools
Evri introduced several digital upgrades aimed at enhancing customer convenience. These improvements include a streamlined website and mobile app, better real-time tracking, and more flexible delivery options.
Customers now benefit from:
- More accurate estimated delivery windows
- In-store label printing for drop-off services
- Automated chat support for common queries
- Easier parcel protection and return management
These updates directly address many of the complaints customers previously had when using Hermes services.
Expanded ParcelShop and Locker Network
One of the major physical infrastructure changes since the rebrand has been the expansion of the drop-off and pick-up network.
While Hermes had around 4,500 ParcelShops, Evri has more than 10,000 locations, making it significantly easier for users to access services locally.
This expansion supports the increasing demand for out-of-home delivery and returns, which are especially important for online shoppers looking for flexible collection or drop-off points.
Sustainability and ESG Commitments
Sustainability has become a key pillar of Evri’s brand identity. Following the rebrand, the company has made it a priority to integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) values into its operations. These include:
- Using biomethane fuel to reduce carbon emissions
- Investing in electric vehicles for urban deliveries
- Implementing ethical sourcing and courier support frameworks
- Designing facilities to minimise energy consumption and waste
These initiatives reflect a shift in how the business sees its long-term role not just as a logistics provider, but as a responsible corporate citizen.
Key Post-Rebrand Changes:
| Area of Change | Before (Hermes) | After (Evri) |
| Courier Network | Approx. 15,000 couriers | 20,000+ couriers |
| Drop-off Locations | Around 4,500 ParcelShops | Over 10,000 ParcelShops and lockers |
| Superhub Infrastructure | Limited | Barnsley Superhub with sustainable design |
| Digital Customer Tools | Basic tracking and booking | Real-time updates, in-store label printing |
| ESG Commitment | Emerging focus | Integrated sustainability strategy |
| Vehicle Fleet | Conventional diesel vehicles | Electric and biomethane-powered options |
These improvements have contributed to higher customer satisfaction and allowed Evri to grow its parcel volume significantly delivering over 700 million parcels in 2023 alone.
Who Owns Evri and Did Ownership Change After the Rebrand?
Ownership of the company did not change during the rebranding process. Evri remains under the ownership of Advent International, the global private equity firm that became involved in Hermes UK in 2020.
Advent International played a key role in supporting the rebrand by funding internal improvements and overseeing the development of a transformation roadmap.
The investment was intended to accelerate growth and improve operational performance, which set the stage for the transition from Hermes to Evri.
As a result, while the name and brand changed, the leadership, investment structure, and long-term vision of the business remained consistent.
What Services Does Evri Offer in the UK?
Evri continues to operate a full suite of delivery services designed for individual customers, small businesses, and large enterprises.
These services are competitively priced and supported by a flexible infrastructure of couriers, ParcelShops, and tracking systems.
Key Evri services include:
- Doorstep collection from homes or businesses
- Drop-off delivery via a nationwide ParcelShop and locker network
- International parcel delivery to over 220 global destinations
- Return services for eCommerce and online shopping
- Tracking services with real-time updates
Customers also benefit from features such as:
- Free tracking on all delivery services
- Parcel protection of up to £5,000 on select services
- Label printing in-store at no extra cost
- Weight allowance up to 30kg per parcel
Evri’s network is designed to support large-scale partnerships. It is currently used by major UK retailers and eCommerce platforms including Amazon, ASOS, John Lewis, eBay, Vinted, and Etsy.
Service Development Over Time
| Year | Milestone |
| 2010 | First ParcelShop launched for convenient drop-offs |
| 2014 | 7-day-a-week delivery introduced |
| 2018 | “The Parcel People” strapline launched |
| 2020 | Biomethane-powered trucks added to fleet |
| 2022 | Rebranded to Evri and opened Barnsley Superhub |
| 2023 | Became the UK’s largest dedicated parcel delivery firm |
These milestones reflect a continuous focus on innovation and service expansion, helping Evri meet the evolving needs of customers and retailers.
How Has the Public Responded to the Evri Rebrand?
Public response to the Evri rebrand has been mixed, but largely positive over time. Initially, some scepticism surrounded the name change, with critics suggesting that it may have been an attempt to shed negative associations tied to Hermes.
However, the company has taken deliberate steps to back the new brand with measurable improvements.
Investments in customer service, sustainability, and convenience have led to better customer satisfaction scores and more positive online reviews.
The new brand has also resonated better with younger consumers and online marketplace sellers, many of whom prioritise ethical operations and user-friendly technology.
Retail partners have responded favourably to the expanded delivery options and improved reliability.
Evri’s ongoing growth including delivering over 700 million parcels in 2023 reflects increasing market confidence in the new brand and its ability to meet high-volume demand with efficiency and value.
What is the Future of Evri as a Parcel Delivery Company?
Evri has set ambitious targets for its future, with plans to double in size over the next five years. This growth will be driven by four strategic areas:
- International expansion, allowing more UK businesses to send parcels worldwide
- Fulfilment solutions for online retailers seeking integrated delivery support
- Returns logistics, offering fast and flexible return options for eCommerce
- Out-of-home delivery through an expanded network of ParcelShops and lockers
To support this, Evri is investing in its technological infrastructure, enhancing customer interfaces, mobile tracking, and API integrations for business clients.
Sustainability remains a central pillar of its strategy, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and improving packaging solutions.
With its rebrand successfully implemented and operational improvements well underway, Evri is positioning itself as the most convenient and environmentally conscious delivery partner in the UK.
Conclusion
The transition from Hermes to Evri represents more than a change in name it marks a pivotal shift in the company’s values, service standards, and vision for the future.
While Hermes had built a strong presence in UK logistics, Evri aims to redefine that legacy through innovation, customer focus, and sustainability.
Backed by strategic investment and public accountability, Evri is now positioned as a forward-thinking leader in parcel delivery, committed to meeting the needs of today’s businesses and consumers across the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions About Evri’s Rebrand
What did Evri used to be called before the name change?
Evri was previously known as Hermes UK, a major parcel delivery company operating across the United Kingdom.
Did Hermes rebrand because of bad customer reviews?
Public perception did influence the rebrand. Hermes faced criticism regarding customer service and delivery issues, prompting a fresh start as Evri with a focus on improvement.
Is Evri still the same company as Hermes?
Yes, Evri is operated by the same parent company and maintains many of the same services and infrastructure.
When exactly did Hermes become Evri?
Hermes officially changed its name to Evri in March 2022 after months of planning and strategic investment.
What does the name Evri stand for?
Evri is derived from the word “every,” reflecting the company’s aim to deliver for everyone, everywhere.
Are Evri’s services better than Hermes?
Many improvements have been made since the rebrand, including better tracking, more drop-off locations, and a focus on sustainability.
Can I still use Hermes tracking numbers with Evri?
Yes, old Hermes tracking numbers can still be used on the Evri website to track parcels sent before or during the transition.
