Stord boosts e-commerce logistics by acquiring UPS subsidiary Ware2Go

In a strategic move to enhance its e-commerce logistics capabilities, Stord, an Atlanta-based logistics startup, announced on May 19, 2025, the acquisition of UPS subsidiary Ware2Go. This acquisition, which was not publicly priced, marks a significant step for Stord as it strives to increase its competitive edge against major players like Amazon. Founded by Sean Henry, Stord aims to provide scalable logistics solutions for smaller businesses looking to compete in the online marketplace. The company has raised substantial funding, including a $200 million Series E round, and is now valued at $1.5 billion. Stord’s acquisition of Ware2Go adds a notable 2.5 million square feet to its existing network that includes 13 facilities across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and the Netherlands, along with over 70 partner sites globally. This expansion is particularly important as the e-commerce space becomes increasingly crowded and competitive, dominated by giants such as Amazon and its Prime service. According to Sean Henry, the acquisition is part of Stord’s broader strategy to enhance logistics and fulfillment services, which remain critical challenges for independent merchants attempting to reach consumers quickly and efficiently. In light of recent economic uncertainties, including tariffs and past disruptions such as the Covid-19 pandemic, Henry noted that such events often drive increased interest in Stord’s platform. Independent brands recognize that navigating these challenges on their own can be daunting. Consequently, they turn to logistics partners like Stord for support. This trend has led to an increase in platform volume, as businesses seek to utilize technology that integrates logistics with fulfillment effectively. Since its inception, Stord has gathered significant backing from notable venture capital firms, including Kleiner Perkins and Peter Thiel's Founders Fund. Sean Henry, who started Stord at the age of 18 after dropping out of the Georgia Institute of Technology, attributes the company's growth to lessons learned during his time in the Thiel Fellowship, particularly regarding constructing a defensible competitive advantage. As physical logistics requires substantial infrastructure to achieve rapid delivery, the company focuses on building technology that supports operational efficiencies, which it believes will be critical in keeping up with competitors in the fast-evolving e-commerce landscape.