Founding of Federal Express
Federal Express was founded by Frederick W. Smith in Little Rock, Arkansas. The company aimed to create a global logistics and overnight shipping service.
1971
1973
Operations Begin
FedEx officially began operations, offering overnight delivery services to 25 cities across the United States from its new hub in Memphis, Tennessee.
1978
Public Offering
FedEx went public, listing its shares on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol FDX.
1981
International Expansion
FedEx started its international services, initially focusing on deliveries to Canada and later expanding to Europe and Asia.
1983
First Billion-Dollar Year
FedEx reached $1 billion in revenues, making it the first U.S. company to achieve this milestone within 10 years of its founding without mergers or acquisitions.
1984
Acquisition of Gelco Express International
FedEx acquired Gelco Express International, expanding its global footprint and enhancing its international delivery capabilities.
1989
Acquisition of Flying Tigers
FedEx acquired Flying Tigers, a major air cargo carrier, significantly expanding its global air network.
1994
Rebranding to FedEx
Federal Express officially rebranded itself as FedEx, adopting the name that had become synonymous with fast, reliable shipping.
1998
Formation of FedEx Corporation
FedEx Corporation was formed as a holding company, overseeing various subsidiaries including FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, and FedEx Services.
2000
Acquisition of Tower Group International
FedEx acquired Tower Group International, a leader in international logistics, further strengthening its global supply chain solutions.
2004
Acquisition of Kinko's
FedEx acquired Kinko's, a retail chain providing copying and printing services, and rebranded it as FedEx Office.
2006
Acquisition of Watkins Motor Lines
FedEx acquired Watkins Motor Lines, a leading provider of long-haul freight services, and rebranded it as FedEx National LTL.
2013
FedEx One Rate Launch
FedEx introduced FedEx One Rate, a flat-rate shipping option for express packages, simplifying the pricing structure for customers.
2016
Acquisition of TNT Express
FedEx completed the acquisition of TNT Express, significantly enhancing its European capabilities and expanding its global reach.
2020
FedEx and the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, FedEx played a crucial role in delivering essential goods and medical supplies worldwide, showcasing its resilience and adaptability.
2022
FedEx Logistics Headquarters Opening
FedEx opened its new FedEx Logistics headquarters in Downtown Memphis, further cementing its commitment to the city and enhancing its logistics capabilities.
2023
Sustainability Goals
FedEx announced ambitious sustainability goals, including achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040, as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.
