FEDEX TO EXPAND HOME DELIVERY NETWORK

FEDEX TO EXPAND HOME DELIVERY NETWORK    FedEx Corp., the Memphis-based logistics and transportation giant, said it will expand its home delivery network to cover 80 percent of the United States' population by fall 2001 and achieve full U.S. coverage by fall 2002.
   The company said its home delivery services have been well accepted by shippers, pushing it to expand the unit faster than originally anticipated. FedEx launched its Home Delivery unit, a division of FedEx Ground, early this year to position itself in what is expected to be a growing electronic commerce delivery market. Analysts questioned whether FedEx, known for its prowess in the air, could make a home delivery service pay off.
   “Business-to-consumer shippers and their customers have responded enthusiastically to the innovative service options that FedEx Home Delivery brings to the residential market,” said Daniel J. Sullivan, president and chief executive officer of FedEx Ground.
   Beginning in July, FedEx will open about 150 new FedEx Home Delivery terminals. By March 2001, FedEx Home Delivery will increase its reach from 50 percent to 70 percent of the U.S. population. Phase two will enable FedEx to serve 80 percent by fall that year.