Wildberries, the largest online retail platform in Russia, has announced a search for partners to establish new warehouse hubs. This decision is a direct response to a series of Ukrainian drone strikes that have been damaging the company’s infrastructure for the past three weeks.
According to satellite imagery analysis by Reuters, approximately 1.18 million square meters of Wildberries’ warehouse space have been destroyed since July 18, accounting for over one-fifth of the company’s total storage area. The attacks, which occur almost every night, have targeted warehouses filled with goods.
Wildberries stated that owners and tenants of affected parcels will have the opportunity to set up a partner hub. “Owners and tenants of suitable parcels will be able to establish a partner hub and earn from handling, storing, and transporting goods sold on the marketplace,” the company said in a statement. These hubs can be established in all regions of Russia.
Additionally, Meduza reports that the platform has introduced an option for sellers to purchase insurance against drone attacks, allowing them to claim up to 50,000 rubles (about $2,263) for damaged goods.
Over 20 Ukrainian Attacks in a Month
Since the first half of July, Wildberries has been the target of over 20 Ukrainian drone strikes. Drones have hit warehouses and logistics centers belonging to Wildberries both in Russia and in occupied Crimea.
Small and large Russian businesses sell a wide range of products on the platform, from household appliances to cars and even tractors. Many companies rely heavily on sales through Wildberries. The platform’s position in Russia is frequently compared to that of Amazon in the United States.
According to Dialog, Wildberries is also assisting the military in procuring sanctioned goods, offering equipment for Russian soldiers, including bulletproof vests and helmets.
E-commerce Facilities as Military Targets
Ukraine regards e-commerce facilities as legitimate military targets due to their role in supplying the Russian army at the front. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized in July that large logistics and warehouse facilities are being attacked because they are used to deliver sanctioned components for drone production and navigation equipment.
