as an email to postal service system. In 1999, Royal Mail launched a short-lived e-commerce venture, ViaCode Limited, aimed at providing encrypted online communications services. However, it failed to make a profit and closed in 2002.

In 1999 Royal Mail acquired German Parcel, incorporating it into a newly formed holding company, General Logistics Systems B.V., which over the next few years was used to establish an international network of parcel couriers