To enable last mile delivery in rural parts of the country, Mahindra Logistics has partnered with Bengaluru-based social enterprise and largest village commerce network, 1Bridge. Mahindra Logistics has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with 1Bridge to this effect, the company has said.

Under the tie-up, over the next three years, the two partners look to build last-mile delivery capability covering over 1,00,000 villages in the country, Mahindra Logistics Ltd (MLL) said in a release. The two partners have commenced pilot projects in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra on deliveries of consumer/home appliances and groceries, it said.

"This collaboration will complement MLL's logistical expertise, pan-India network and a wide customer base with 1Bridge's deep presence across villages in rural India through its network of local business associates and district-level stations. We look forward to working collaboratively towards a strengthened supply chain network in rural India," said Rampraveen Swaminathan, MD & CEO, Mahindra Logistics.

1Bridge has its operations spanning over 6,000 villages across 65 districts in six states, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Odisha, according to the release. "We are delighted to partner with a leader like Mahindra Logistics, as this will enable a start-up like us to learn faster and deliver better consumer experience to the village consumers," said Madan Padaki, CEO, 1Bridge.

Mahindra Logistics specializes in supply chain management and serves customers across various industries including consumer goods and e-commerce across the country. 1Bridge serves as a bridge that connects the supply side of the value chain to the demand side through its village entrepreneurs and a technology platform.