• DHL Global Forwarding (Vietnam) Corporation to offer Vietnam customers full suite of global logistics solutions
• Unveils plans for Southeast Asia’s first “DHL Fashion and Apparel Center for Excellence” to support Vietnam's ever-growing fashion export industry

Singapore, 23 June 2009 –DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, announced today that it will invest US$10 million over the next five years in its new joint venture in Vietnam. The company signed this agreement with its local Vietnam partners including Oriental Logistic to form a new entity, DHL Global Forwarding (Vietnam) Corporation.

The investments will go towards the expansion of facilities, employee training, upgrading of information systems and introducing an enhanced range of services for businesses in Vietnam. “The newly-launched DHL Global Forwarding (Vietnam) Corporation will offer customers the full range of logistics and supply chain services available anywhere in the world to local customers,” said Amadou Diallo, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding South Asia Pacific.

As part of this investment, by end 2009, DHL will also launch the “DHL Fashion and Apparel Center for Excellence” in Vietnam, its first in Southeast Asia. The center will comprise of a core team of industry experts and be responsible for developing tailored solutions and provide consultancy services to customers in DHL's biggest fashion and apparel logistics market in South East Asia.

“The fashion and apparel industry is one of the core focus areas for DHL Global Forwarding in Asia Pacific. This industry contributed nearly US$2.6 billion to Vietnam in the first four months of 2009 alone, with US$9.5 billion in exports projected for 2009. Despite the economic slowdown, the sector is predicted to grow at 5% for the year which demonstrates some degree of resilience compared to other sectors ,” added Amadou Diallo.

Mr. Sam Ang, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding South East Asia, said, “We are very optimistic about Vietnam’s growth potential. The country has recorded impressive export growth in the past decade, and even in the prevailing economic climate today, continues to grow its export volumes in various key industries – notably fashion.”

As the global leader in air and ocean freight, DHL estimates the Fashion and Apparel Logistics industry to be worth US$3.9 billion per annum in South Asia and South East Asia. Vietnam, Indonesia and Cambodia alone are estimated to account for well over US$2.5 billion in this fast-growing industry. DHL's services cover the entire logistics value chain of the fashion industry.

DHL Global Forwarding (Vietnam) Corporation is a strategic investment by DHL in preparation for the anticipated future growth while concentrating on opportunities from the highly critical textile and apparel, footwear and furniture industries, which are very well established in Vietnam. The business is also ideally positioned to assist I.T. and telecommunications industries with their logistical needs as the country grows its manufacturing base in those fields. Customers will stand to benefit from a stepped up level of service capabilities and access to a global range of market leading logistics solutions.

“The US$10 million investment reinforces our commitment to Vietnam significantly,” said DHL Global Forwarding Vietnam Managing Director Mr Michel Khaou. “Vietnam is continually seeking to improve its export economy and its integration with world markets, and certainly DHL Global Forwarding (Vietnam) Corporation, with our increase in service offering in the coming months is ideally positioned to facilitate this.”

In addition to the standard portfolio of services, greater cost savings benefits for customers due to its buying power and setting up of regular consolidations to major gateways, DHL Global Forwarding (Vietnam) Corporation will provide services that include:

1. International & domestic cargo freight forwarding services by road, rail, waterways, oceans, air and multimode transport contracts
2. Freight transportation (marine and airline) agency services
3. Logistic services (labeling and packaging services, other supporting and auxiliary transportation services)
4. Storage and warehouse services
5. Customs clearance services
6. Container station and depot services
7. Domestic cargo transport services by road, railway, sea, inland waterway and airlines (using services of licensed cargo transport providers, no direct involvement in cargo transport).

Logistics expert appointed official logistics partner for Asia’s premier multi-sport event, first shipment arrived in Singapore on 21 May

Singapore, 17 June 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, has been named the official logistics provider for the 1st Asian Youth Games Singapore 2009 (AYG). The first shipment arrived on 21 May 2009 and other equipment and material transported for the AYG have followed closely.

“DHL is a strong supporter of many sporting events and we are extremely proud to partner the 1st Asian Youth Games Singapore 2009. With a global network of more than 220 countries and territories, DHL will offer end-to-end supply chain solutions that encompass air and ocean freight, customs clearance, management of a central warehouse, and domestic distribution of equipment to the Games venues,” said Richard Owens, Senior Vice President, Global Customer Solutions, DHL Asia Pacific.

“Transportation of equipment is underway and we expect to handle a multitude of material and sporting equipment from China, India, Poland and the U.S. to Singapore,” said Sam Ang, Chief Executive Officer, South East Asia, DHL Global Forwarding South Asia Pacific.

DHL will also operate the AYG central warehouse that will store the equipment and supplies for the games. “The warehouse will be managed using our advanced warehouse inventory management tools – the IT backbone will provide a comprehensive and systematic management of inventory in the central warehouse,” said Peet Leong, Vice President, Southeast Asia and Managing Director, DHL Supply Chain Singapore.

Ng Ser Miang, Chairman, Steering Committee, Singapore Asian Youth Games Organising Committee (SAYGOC), said, “The inaugural Asian Youth Games marks a historic milestone in Singapore’s sporting history. We are delighted that DHL shares our common vision to make this event a tremendous success. With seamless logistics support in place, we are confident that DHL will play a key role in the efficient delivery of the Games in Singapore.”

DHL’s expertise in clinical trial logistics will be leveraged in anti-doping tests at the AYG, tapping on the logistics giant’s capability in customs regulations and packaging for the sector. “Urine samples will be delivered from Singapore to the World Anti-Doping Agency-accredited laboratory within 24 hours upon pickup from various venues. The urine samples will be packed in a special packaging and we have a team on standby for pickup and shipment handling to ensure we deliver within the required time frame,” said Herbert Vongpusanachai, Country Manager, DHL Express Singapore. DHL will also operate service counters at the AYG Games’ Village in Swissotel the Stamford to cater to the needs of the media, officials and athletes during the Games.

DHL will also be involved in the symbolic torch relay which will mark the start of the Games. Over 180 torch-bearers and 70,000 people are expected to participate in the relay and related activities island wide. The logistics expert will manage the transportation and storage of the cauldron, torches and gas cartridges.

DHL is a strong supporter of global sporting events worldwide. It has been the Formula One (F1) Global Partner and Official Logistics Provider since 2004. In Asia, DHL supports the AFC Champions League, National Basketball Association and Special Olympics.

Singapore, 10 June 2009 – Deutsche Post DHL has just published a new study, “Delivering Tomorrow − Customer Needs in 2020 and Beyond.” The research provides a number of expert opinions and analyses garnered from 900 international respondents, including CEOs from leading MNCs and respected scholars, on issues such as globalization, economy, technology, logistics, environment and society. The study reveals trends in these areas up to the year 2020 and beyond, and serves as a guiding principle for future business strategies.

Highlights of the report include a ‘green’ product revolution; a broad, technology-driven transformation in customer habits and expectations; and the emergence of China an economic and technological leader. The study exposed some interesting regional differences, with Asian respondents identifying trends in contrast to those promoted by their Western peers. Many respondents, regardless of origin, endorsed hypotheses of particular interest for companies and individuals in Asia.

By carrying out this study, the mail and logistics group has created an orientation guide for possible future scenarios. Deutsche Post DHL has made use of the knowledge gained by integrating it into its recently presented corporate strategy. “The study’s results show that issues such as sustainability, education and social responsibility will gain in importance for companies in the future. By implementing programs like GoGreen and Teach First today, we are already preparing ourselves for the challenges of the future and pointing the way ahead by highlighting key issues early on,” said Frank Appel, CEO of Deutsche Post DHL, at the official presentation of the study at the Globe Forum in Stockholm.

The research and analyses for the study “Delivering Tomorrow − Customer Needs in 2020 and Beyond” were carried out between June 2008 and January 2009. 81 future theses were developed and then discussed at length by the participants. 900 people from all corners of the globe, including CEOs from prestigious international companies and scholars from the fields of economics, futurology, and logistics as well as experts provided by selected customers from a wide range of sectors received the comprehensive questionnaire for evaluation. The study utilized Delphi methodology, which has been in use since the early 1950s. It consists of a multistage assessment process, during which experts are presented with various theses and asked to provide their opinions. This systematic approach helps ensure Delphi studies produce prognoses that are generally more precise and coherent than those derived from general surveys. Key predictions arising from this study concentrate on the challenges of climate change, the influence of increasing Internet networking, and the growing importance of the logistics industry.

Climate change and CO2 reduction
Climate change is already widely perceived as one of the greatest challenges facing humankind. The study participants predict that, in the years to come, purchasing decisions will no longer be based solely on brand, quality and price. In the future, the environmental impact of products and services will play a major role. “If you look at the label on a glass of jam today, you’ll see it lists the number of calories. But in 2020, likely labels will also indicate how much carbon dioxide was emitted in production and transport of the product,” comments Frank Appel. To a certain extent, consumers will be willing to pay more for ecologically sound products and services. With less environmentally conscious providers striving to overcome their competitive disadvantage as quickly as possible, consumer behavior will effectively bring about a steady improvement in environmental standards.

A few differences were seen between responses from the East and West. For example, Asian experts are far more inclined to believe in the worldwide emergence of ecofriendly “zero-emissions cities” than their colleagues in Europe, Africa, and America. Asian experts also believe that customers are prepared to accept longer delivery times for their orders in the interests of more climate-friendly logistics.

Logistics companies lead the way
In spite of the current financial crisis, the Delphi experts do not foresee far-reaching upheavals within the existing political and social system – in 2020 the world will still be run as a market economy. The competition for growth, wealth, and resources will persist, with countries and companies the major players. The trend toward outsourcing production will continue, and many companies will look to global value chains in the pursuit of a competitive edge. On the other hand, the Delphi study also predicts that companies will have to collaborate more often and more closely than ever before. At the vanguard of change, the logistics industry will be the model that other sectors follow. To combat the high cost of energy, logistics companies will invest more resources than ever before into establishing and operating shared networks. Appel explains: “Ensuring that the logistics of the future is as environmentally friendly as possible is one of our strategic goals. We already offer carbon-neutral shipping, for example. And we were also the first logistics company to create a climate protection program that ties us to specific emission reduction targets. We’re already on the right track. But as the Delphi study shows, by 2020 a good number of our competitors will have copied us. So we have to keep on finding new ways to keep ahead.”

Business via the Internet – anytime, anyplace
Customers in 2020 may attach great value to the environment, but not at the expense of speedy delivery. They will want all products and services to be available immediately. Consequently, consumers will demand greater transparency and extensive information in real time from suppliers. This will make the Internet more important than ever: by 2020, a good deal of the population of the world, primarily in developed and emerging counties, will be almost permanently online and some three billion people will conduct their business exclusively over the World Wide Web. The pace of events will continue to increase – not just in the commercial world, but rather in all walks of life. The demand for flexibility and permanent availability will increase.

Optimistic outlook
Although terrorist attacks and global pandemics will remain a threat in the future, the experts believe that these scenarios can be kept in check through financial and technological investment. Interestingly, while Asian experts are more pessimistic than their peers when it comes to security and public health, they tend to have strong confidence in technology’s ability to transform business practices and play an increasingly innovative role in the commercial world.

A similar trend applies to the growing global population. The respondents from Asia are confident that state-organized population control will be an effective tool for arresting population growth, and most of them predict that the world population could stabilize between seven and eight billion. By contrast, respondents from other parts of the world are convinced that the population will continue to rise, and with it the consumption of resources. “Nevertheless, our experts were generally optimistic,” says Frank Appel, “They believe that these future challenges can be controlled by market economics.”

Businesses in Singapore stand to benefit from cost savings of up to 30 per cent

Singapore, 4 June 2009 – DHL Global Mail, Deutsche Post DHL’s International Mail division, has announced that it has been granted the Postal Services Operator License from the Info-communications Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) to provide conveyance of private and confidential mail to and from Singapore.

“The Postal Services Operator License enables DHL to offer customers an even wider breadth of services. Customers will benefit from fast, dependable deliveries at cost savings of up to 30 per cent as compared to pre-postal deregulation,” said Patrick Martin, Managing Director Global Mail Asia / EMA. The company is among a small number of accredited licensees to serve this segment of the postal market in Singapore as an independent provider, after the liberalization of the market in 2007.

With the license, DHL is targeting the segment of international outbound mail, believed to be worth in excess of 24 million euros per annum. “Over 90% of Singapore’s mail volume is generated by business customers. Among these, the financial industry is a key generator of cross border mail, accounting for well over 30% international mail shipments from Singapore,” said Sergio Cravedi, VP Business Development, Asia-Pacific, DHL Global Mail.

“Singapore is a growing market for international mail services and we welcome DHL’s decision to be a Postal Service Operator in Singapore. The liberalization of the market has provided an opportunity for mail service providers to emerge with innovative solutions to diversify postal products and services, and stimulate market growth. Businesses and consumers will stand to benefit through more of such service innovation and competition,” said Mr Leong Keng Thai, Director-General (Telecoms and Post), Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore.

DHL customers enjoy absolute convenience using this service. They need only to tick a box on their DHL Express flyers or envelopes to indicate if they wish to send the document either by DHL Express services or through DHL Global Mail services. Through DHL’s extensive Express ground network, customers also enjoy the same pick-up service of unsorted mail, and also enjoy credit terms – an important aspect for SMEs given the current economic climate.

“With the current economic downturn, businesses are looking at all possible areas to reduce cost, while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction. With the new postal license, DHL customers enjoy the full spectrum of services – from international postal services right through to urgent door-to-door, time definite international deliveries. As Singapore’s leading Express service provider for over 35 years, we offer the broadest range of services that provide customers convenience, flexibility and cost-savings,” said Herbert Vongpusanachai, Country Manager, DHL Express Singapore.

DHL Global Mail is well placed to handle the increased volume expected from the license. The company has invested significantly in enhancing its infrastructure and modernizing its logistics systems over the past few years in Singapore. The DHL Global Mail terminals, located in close proximity to Singapore’s Changi Airport have the capacity to handle over seven million pieces of mail per month and occupy a total area of nearly 36,000 square feet, or about the size of 12 tennis courts. They offer a comprehensive suite of product offerings covering business Mail, Mail (Direct mail and publications), Parcel and Plus (Solutions based).

Customers will also have access to an expanded portfolio of value-added services offered by DHL Global Mail, including:
- Database management
- Variable printing - a form of on-demand printing in which text and graphics may be changed from one printed piece to the next without slowing down the process
- Lettershopping - a fulfillment service which includes the folding of direct mailers, insertion into envelopes/covers, cover sheet printing, sorting
- Light warehousing - warehousing services for quick turnabout small items that are predominantly transported via postal entry
- Hybrid mail services - helps customers optimize their print location and postage costs while exceeding their transit time requirements through the suite of transportation products DHL can offer from mail to freight.
- Pick and pack services - a service whereby required items are packed according to specific orders and mailed out to intended recipients. This service is especially used in e-commerce, healthcare and reward redemption industries.

“Innovation and value creation for our customers is our primary focus, especially in the current economic climate. Providing our customer with optimal solutions to help them through these tough times is of paramount importance to us. From hybrid mail printing to fulfilment and final distribution, we have optimised our processes to offer customers better value and delivery performance, while cutting postage costs”, concluded Martin.

Singapore, 3 June 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, is capitalizing on opportunities in supply chain solutions for the Airline Catering sector estimated to be worth 12 billion euros per annum globally. Building on its expertise in Supply Chain Management and Business Solutions, DHL aims to examine further opportunities within this sector and grow existing relationships with players in the Airline Sector. The logistics leader shared its focus on airline solutions at the Asia Pacific Airline Engineering Purchasing & Supply Chain Conference held in Bangkok.

The Asia Pacific region is a focus area for DHL Supply Chain as 10 of the world’s top 35 airlines are Asia Pacific carriers. The region is also the second largest driver of international air travel. DHL Supply Chain offers complete end-to-end solutions for the Airline Catering Services sector, from procurement to the provision of food catering and in-flight entertainment, right through to the final mile delivery to the aircraft, and returns management – the disposal of waste from the planes and washing of reusable items.

DHL has vast experience in managing extremely complex supply chains across a broad range of business sectors, from Aviation to Automotive and Healthcare to Retail, including multi-temperature food distribution where the typical spend on the Supply Chain is between 5% and 10% of turnover. In-flight services or ‘above the wing’ items – products on board the plane for customer comfort, appears to fall squarely within this range. Of this, food catering accounts for between 20% and 30% of cost and the remaining 70% - 80% relates to the supply chain.

“DHL’s airline solutions help airlines better manage the ‘above the wing’ cost, and add value by reducing cost and improving product choices for the customers’ benefit. DHL’s approach represents a fundamental shift to consider airlines’ onboard requirements as a total end-to-end process. This frame of reference enables DHL to work closely with airlines to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, product selections or reduce costs,” said Paul Graham, Chief Executive Officer, DHL Supply Chain Asia Pacific.

“There are over 40,000 unique items that go on board a B747 aircraft, enabling numerous permutations offered to passengers depending on the passenger’s travel class. A seamless supply chain is critical as airlines have short turnaround times and exceedingly low tolerance for delays,” he added. “The current challenging economic climate encourages businesses to consider changes that will make a fundamental difference in their product offering, service quality and bottom line.”

In Asia Pacific, DHL Supply Chain is seeking to replicate the success of its multi-million pound annual contract with British Airways, to handle in-flight catering services for short haul and domestic flights from Heathrow. The 10-year contract, which comes into effect in 2010, will involve the provisioning, consolidating and transporting to the aircraft, of up to 13 million meals per annum in premium and economy cabins, the in-flight retail, in-flight media and all items to drive customer in-flight satisfaction.

Easing the congestion at Airports: Opportunities in Retail Logistics for Airports
DHL is also eyeing the opportunity to offer solutions to airport authorities keen to ease congestion in airports. Particularly in Asia Pacific which has seen tremendous growth in the passenger numbers in airports, congestion is an increasing concern. Between 2004 and 2007 , passengers passing through the Bangkok airport grew an average of 13%, 40% through Beijing airport, 20% through Hong Kong, 15% in Kuala Lumpur, 27% in Shanghai, 15% in Singapore, 17% in Seoul and 20% in Jakarta.

DHL Supply Chain presently runs the award-winning Heathrow Consolidation Center on behalf of the British Airports Authority. The 25,000 sq ft multi-temperature facility is the consolidation point for a broad range of goods destined for Heathrow’s retailers. This not only removes multiple trips by vendors to individual retailers in each terminal, it also enables retailers to reduce inventory stored at the airport stores as stocks can be replenished more frequently from the consolidation center.

“Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, and the consolidation center model has reduced retailers’ movements by 70%, enabled recycling of 120 tons of cardboard and reducing CO2 carbon emissions in excess of 60 tons per annum,” said Graham.

DHL’s own operations give it an in-depth understanding of the requirements and constraints of the airline services sector. “We are the ninth largest airline in the world, handling 12% of worldwide cargo out of 220 airports. Many of the solutions required by the airline services sector are not unlike other industries we service across the FMCG, consumer, technology, automotive and fashion sectors,” said Graham. “In addition to our unrivalled network of over 220 countries and territories, we have core skills in business transformation with committed teams to help see through the seamless implementation as we work with businesses to redesign their supply chains.”

• Global initiative aimed at driving organic growth through strong customer loyalty

Singapore, 18 May 2009 – DHL Global Forwarding, the world’s leading air and ocean freight company, announced today plans to roll-out in Sri Lanka the Group-wide program called ‘First Choice’ – a customer-centric quality program. To be introduced in the third quarter of this year, ‘First Choice’ is aimed at driving organic growth by building strong customer loyalty. Employees are at the heart of the First Choice program, taking the lead in the organizational shift toward superior customer orientation.

“First Choice is about keeping our promise of quality and delivering service excellence to customers in order to be the preferred logistics partner in the industry. This is a powerful initiative which has transformed the way we do business and it starts with every single employee, putting the customer’s interest in the centre of everything that they do”, said Hermann Ude, Global CEO of DHL Global Forwarding, Freight and Member of the Deutsche Post DHL Management Board.

“I am delighted that Sri Lanka will be rolling out the program this year, I am confident it will deliver even higher levels of customer satisfaction, and cultivate a culture where excellence and constant improvement are second nature,” he added.

Mr. Ude was in Colombo last week on a day-long visit during which he met up with key Government officials, the Chairman of the BOI and several top customers to whom he outlined the First Choice concept and its key benefits for them.

The First Choice philosophy impacts customers, employees and shareholders. “It is our firm belief that a leading position in customer loyalty will have a positive impact on revenue and earnings. As the world’s largest logistics group it is our relentless goal to deliver best-in-class service and satisfaction to our customers to maintain our edge as the market leader. We recognize that customers who experience optimal service and quality performance will develop strong partnerships with their logistics providers,” said Mr. Ude.

The workforce of more than 500,000 employees at Deutsche Post DHL is the crucial factor in the success of First Choice. Since the introduction of First Choice in 2007, over 13,000 managers and employees have already been trained in the First Choice methodology, and more than 100,000 employees have been directly integrated into the initiative. The First Choice approach is about understanding what the customer wants and delivering it. Therefore customer feedback is the starting point for all improvement initiatives, with a focus on analyzing work procedures, identifying problems in processes and systematically developing solutions. In First Choice workshops, trained employees help local staff members through an induction program. This system facilitates improvements that are created through initiatives by employees directly on the job.

“First Choice is not a program with a fixed life expectancy but rather a part of our culture and philosophy. This is the reason that employees are at the heart of it: We want to motivate and empower every individual in the Group to provide ‘First Choice’ service, not just for a limited period of time but on a permanent basis,” Ude added.

The First Choice methodology was initially tested and improved in eight pilot projects. Since the test phase was concluded at the beginning of 2007, 225 Group units have introduced First Choice – they represent more than 80 percent of all consolidated revenue. The focus is always on the question of how customer satisfaction can be increased, in terms of both private individuals and businesses. The improvements through the First Choice initiatives around the world ranges from better delivery schedules in the Express division and upgraded complaint management in DHL Global Forwarding to more efficient warehousing solutions at DHL Supply Chain.

The upcoming implementation of ‘First Choice’ follows a series of announcements in recent months underscoring DHL’s continued commitment to Sri Lanka. In March, DHL announced its investment of US$8 million in Sri Lanka over the next three years as well as a state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution centre by 2010. As part of this investment, DHL will also launch the “DHL Fashion and Apparel Centre for Excellence” in Colombo. Last month, DHL also launched two new ocean freight innovation solutions in Sri Lanka including GPS tracking services and Garment-on-Hangers product for the fashion industry. DHL’s innovative services will complement Sri Lanka’s efforts in establishing itself as the Logistics Hub of South Asia.

• Asia Pacific and EEMEA consolidated as one operating region for DHL Express
• Pearson to drive sales and focus on customer service

Singapore, 15 May 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading express company, today named John Pearson as the Executive Vice President, Asia Pacific/ EEMEA (Eastern Europe Middle East Africa) and Chair of the Customer Service Executive Committee of the DHL Global Express Board. The move was announced as part of a wide-ranging reorganization by DHL Express to create a leaner and more streamlined business.

DHL Express has been organized geographically into three operating areas - Asia Pacific and EEMEA, Europe, and the Americas - together with structural changes within operating functions at a regional and global level.

Pearson is a veteran of the Express industry having joined DHL in the Middle East in 1986. In 2008, he was appointed as CEO, EEMEA, after a successful tenure as Executive Vice President, Commercial, DHL Express USA. Pearson also spent three years serving as Commercial Director for DHL Asia Pacific, based in Singapore. During this time, he was responsible for the sales, marketing, and business development activities for DHL Express across the region's 42 markets.

He has held senior positions in sales, marketing and general management in international regions, including General Manager for DHL Saudi Arabia; Global Sales Manager for Financial Institutions at DHL's global headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. He was Area Director of DHL Oceania, responsible for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands; and General Manager, DHL United Arab Emirates, based in Dubai.

Pearson takes over responsibility for DHL Asia Pacific from Dan McHugh, who was appointed CEO, DHL Express Asia Pacific in 2007. The company is reviewing suitable roles for McHugh as he works with Pearson on combining the AP and EEMEA organizations.

• New office to function as DHL Global Forwarding’s North Asia Pacific Regional office

Singapore, 13 May 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading logistics company today announced an investment of over HK$100 million in Hong Kong. The investment goes towards the new 120,000 sq ft DHL Global Forwarding (DGF) office in Kowloon Commerce Centre (KCC) and the “DHL Fashion Competency Center” which is based in KCC. The DHL Fashion Competency Center will develop bespoke logistics products and solutions, and house a core team of industry experts providing consultancy services to customers in North Asia Pacific.

The Fashion and Apparel sector comprised 11% of total exports in Hong Kong in 2008, and in January to February of 2009 alone, total exports for this category amounted to 16%. In 2008, the export of fashion and apparel goods from Hong Kong to the European Union occupied 36.5% of total exports, with an equivalent value of over US$10 billion . In particular, export values to Finland, Russia, Sweden, The Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates experienced double digit growth by the end of 2008 compared to 2007. The U.S. is Hong Kong’s second largest export market for fashion and apparel goods, at 35.6% with a value of close to US$10 billion .

“The Fashion and apparel industry is Hong Kong’s second-largest export commodity worth over US$26 billion , after electronic products. The sector comprised 11% of total exports in Hong Kong in 2008 and experienced double digit growth in exports to many European countries. We see tremendous opportunity in the coming years. Despite the economic slowdown, speed to market remains crucial for business to stay competitive,” said Hermann Ude, Global CEO, DHL Global Forwarding.

Hong Kong’s total Airfreight export for the Fashion and Apparel sector amounted to more than 130,000 tons while Ocean freight export amounted to over 270,000 TEUs (twenty foot equivalent units) in 2008. The Airfreight and Ocean freight export of the sector is expected to reach over 124,000 tons and 276,000 TEUs, respectively in 2009.

“Hong Kong is the sourcing, merchandising and distribution hub for fashion in Asia. We believe in the long-term potential of the sector and continue to invest in Hong Kong. The new DGF office will function as our North Asia Pacific Regional office, drawing together a total of 800 employees under one roof. The new office is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and sustainable features. This is a reason for our selection of the KCC as it is in line with our strategy to reduce our carbon footprint,” said Kelvin Leung, CEO, North Asia Pacific, DHL Global Forwarding.

As the global leader in airfreight and ocean freight, DHL’s services cover the entire fashion logistics value chain – from material purchasing to the sampling business, quality control of production and direct delivery to the boutiques of international fashion companies.

The investment is part of a series of initiatives by DHL to expand its presence in the fashion industry. Earlier this year, DHL launched Fashion Centers of Excellence in India and Sri Lanka. In April, the company inaugurated its Fashion-focused DHL Leadership Dialogue Series in Hong Kong which saw participation from leading global fashion brands.

DHL was also a Key Partner of the World Retail Congress, which was recently held in Barcelona on the 6 – 8 May. Amadou Diallo, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding South Asia Pacific participated in a panel discussion on The Developing Markets: India’s Retail Revolution. DHL also presented the Multi-Market Retailer of the Year 2009 award to Inditex at the World Retail Awards.

Globally, DHL is involved in major events in the fashion industry. DHL is the official express delivery and logistics partner for IMG’s Fashion Weeks around the world. IMG’s Fashion Weeks is a series of prestigious shows by IMG Fashion in ten countries annually. As the official logistics partner, DHL provides logistics services to participating countries. In 2008, DHL, as the official express and logistics partner, extended its successful partnership with IMG in Hong Kong for the MasterCard Luxury Week held in August at the Four Seasons Hotel.

• Scores Gold Awards in the Airfreight/Courier Service category in Asia and Singapore

Singapore, 30 April 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, has once again been voted as one of Asia’s most trusted brands in the ‘Airfreight/Courier Service’ category at the 11th annual Trusted Brands Awards 2009, organized by Reader’s Digest, the world’s largest selling monthly magazine.

In recognition of its market-leading position, the company has received a Gold Award in Asia, in addition to a Gold Award in the same category in Singapore. This is not the first time that DHL is featured strongly in the Reader’s Digest Asia Trusted Brand Awards, as it has scored four Platinum awards in Asia and three in Singapore since 2004.

These prestigious accolades are testament to the strength of DHL’s brand among consumers who see the company as one which is trustworthy, credible, innovative, delivering high quality and value, and understanding their needs.

“Established in the Asia Pacific for over 40 years, DHL has established a strong presence in 42 countries and territories in the region. With over 300,000 customers in the region, the Reader’s Digest Trust Brand Awards is an affirmation of the trust that consumers place in DHL. We take it upon ourselves to continually live up to the expectations by delivering the best quality service, at competitive prices, and constantly innovating to stay ahead of the curve,” said Dan McHugh, Chief Executive Officer, DHL Express Asia Pacific.

Eight thousand respondents took part in the survey, conducted via email and telephone interviews. They were asked to nominate their most trusted brand across various categories and industries. DHL’s strong standing in the annual survey shows that its brand name registers top-of-mind awareness among consumers.

Since 2004, DHL has been the Formula One (F1) Global Partner and Official Logistics Partner; and is the Official Express and Logistics provider of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Asian Champions League in Asia. As a keen supporter of sports, DHL formed a partnership with Special Olympics in 2007 and has been the Global Partner of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics for the past two years.

Apart from sports, DHL is the official international express and logistics partner for IMG’s Fashion Weeks which comprise a series of prestigious shows produced and/or represented by IMG Fashion in ten countries spanning four continents, including Mumbai, Sydney and Hong Kong.

In Singapore, the company also supports high-profile cultural events such as the Singapore International Film Festival (SIFF). 2009 will be the eighth consecutive year that DHL has supported SIFF by delivering film reels and digital videos from 33 countries across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia for screening at the festival.

Launched in 1999, the annual Reader’s Digest Asia Trusted Brands Awards aim to identify the brands that appeal most to affluent Asian consumers. Covering 42 categories of products and services, the survey is carried out in eight key markets in Asia – China, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and the Philippines – and polls thousands of consumers in each market through questionnaires and telephone interviews. Independently conducted by The Nielsen Company, the annual survey is recognized as one of the most representative branding surveys in Asia, with a transparent and professionally executed process that provides consumers with an understanding of the most trusted brands in Asia.

• Service operates 6 times a week, more than doubles capacity on Singapore-Hong Kong route

Singapore, 29 April 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, announced today that a Boeing 747-400F has been added to service its vital Singapore – Hong Kong route through Air Hong Kong, a joint venture between Cathay Pacific and DHL. The 110 ton Boeing freighter replaces the current 45 ton A300-600F, and will operate between both cities six days a week, more than doubling capacity on the SIN-HKG route, a vital link for Intra-Asia trade.

The addition of the Boeing 747-400F service comes on the back of increased air capacity for flights between Hong Kong and Nagoya, Taipei, Seoul and Singapore. Operated by Air Hong Kong, the flights were increased in the fourth quarter of 2008 to six times per week, up from five times a week, representing a 20 per cent increase in capacity for each of these four cities.

“DHL's intra-Asia air Express freight business has grown over 11% year-on-year between 2003 and 2008, with shipments along the Singapore – Hong Kong route comprising 30 percent of total intra-Asia shipment volume,” said Dan McHugh, CEO, DHL Express Asia Pacific. “Adding the biggest freighter aircraft in service, the Boeing 747-400F, to our Express air network on our Singapore-Hong Kong route is a clear signal of our continued commitment to growth in Asia. Our core Asia Air Network is well-utilized and well-positioned for the economic recovery. DHL is the undisputed Express market leader in Asia Pacific. Since 2000, DHL has invested over US$2.2 billion across Asia Pacific and we will continue to invest ahead of the curve.”

The growth of Intra-Asia volumes has also outpaced the growth on other trade lanes. Intra-Asia volumes from Hong Kong grew an average of 16% year-on-year between 2003 and 2008, as compared to a 3% annual growth on other trade lanes. Similarly, in Singapore, DHL’s Intra-Asia volumes grew an average of 5% per annum between 2003 and 2008, as compared to an average of 4% growth on non-Intra-Asia trade lanes.

This upgrade further bolsters DHL’s Asia Express Air Network, which includes more than 20 aircraft covering 30 destinations. “We are optimistic about the opportunities that Asia presents and will continue to invest in this region. With the addition of the Boeing 747-400F, the existing A300-600F will replace some of the smaller aircraft within the network, thus greatly increasing our capacity and network capability and, in turn, enhance our service offering for customers. In addition to the dedicated aircraft, DHL is utilizing over 500 commercial flights per day in Asia Pacific,” said Tom Murphy, Senior Vice President, Aviation, DHL Express Asia Pacific. “DHL’s air network allows major Asia Pacific cities and other business centers to be interconnected through DHL’s regional hubs and gateways, providing customers with overnight services across the region.”

“The Boeing 747-400F service will link DHL’s Central Asia Hub in Hong Kong, and the DHL Express Singapore Hub, two vital hubs which service the robust Intra-Asia trade lane which constitutes over 50% of DHL’s Asia volumes, “ said Stephen Fenwick, Senior Vice President, Operations, DHL Express Asia Pacific. “DHL’s network of hubs and gateways in Asia Pacific are well complemented by a well-established Asia Air Network. These form twin pillars of our highly efficient operational backbone in the region. “

DHL’s US$210 million Central Asia Hub situated at the Hong Kong International Airport is the first large-scale automated Express hub in Asia Pacific. The 35,000 sqm facility highly automated facility handled some 30 million shipments in 2008 and is a central hub for shipments from across Asia Pacific.

The DHL Express Singapore Hub was purchased from the Singapore Airport Terminal Services (SATS) for S$38 million in 2008, after having been leased since 2001. The 18,000 sqm facility is the single largest air express transshipment facility in Changi Airport, more than twice the size of any air express transshipment center in the vicinity. The DHL Express Singapore Hub is a key hub for DHL’s shipments especially from Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

The latest addition of the Boeing 747-400F caps a series of recent investments in DHL’s hubs and gateways in the region. Last week, DHL has inaugurated two new gateways in North Asia to a tune of over US$56 million. Located within the free trade area of the Incheon International Airport, DHL unveiled its latest US$50 million state-of-the-art DHL Express Incheon Gateway in South Korea. Five times larger than the previous DHL Express facility, spanning 20,000 sqm, the facility serves as a consolidation and distribution center for South Korea and markets such as Mongolia, northern China and the Russian Far East.

Last Friday, DHL also launched its brand new DHL Taipei Gateway located in the Farglory Free Trade Zone of the Taoyuan International Airport. Spanning 13,515 sqm, four times the size of its old facility, the US$6.2 million DHL Taipei Gateway is a three-in-one center which functions as a Gateway, Operations Service Center and 24 hour drop off point. The high-tech facility will enable DHL to triple its shipment handling capacity to 11,000 pieces per hour.

• Market leader triples shipment capacity and reaffirms commitment to Taiwan

Singapore, 24 April 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, today announced the inauguration of its new Taipei Gateway located at the Farglory Free Trade Zone of the Taoyuan International Airport. With a total investment of NT$210 million, DHL is the only international express logistics company to have invested continuously in logistics facilities in Taiwan.

With the completion of its technologically-advanced Taipei Gateway, DHL has enhanced its market leading position through increased operational efficiency and ability to deliver flexible and optimal express services to customers. Shipment handling capacity in the new Gateway will be tripled, from 3,600 to 11,000 pieces per hour. The total footprint of the DHL Taipei Gateway is four times that of the previous facility, increasing from 3,867 sqm (1,257 ping) to 13,515 sqm (4,088 ping) – an equivalent of 46 tennis courts.

In addition, the DHL Taipei Gateway is Taiwan’s only Express gateway that houses a 24-hour Drop-Off Centre where customers will receive assistance from a dedicated team and greater convenience to send their shipments using DHL’s Express services anytime of the day. As a result, the drop-off cut-off time can be extended for up to two hours for shipments that are delivered directly to the DHL Taipei gateway.

“We are very excited about the expanded Taipei Gateway. Coupled with the expanded Central Asia Hub in Hong Kong last year, connectivity for the Greater China Region is brought to the next level as we continue to build on our network,” said Jerry Hsu, President, Greater China Area, DHL Express Asia Pacific and Executive Vice President, Deutsche Post DHL. “We are very optimistic about the future growth here in Taiwan. With our investment of NT$210 million in our DHL Taipei Gateway, we are committed to providing world-class logistics services to local companies as they keep internationalizing their business and will need quick access to global markets through our extensive network.”

“Over the years, Taiwan has consistently been one of our top performing teams in the region, and our investments are a testament to the belief in the potential of our Taiwan staff to continue to deliver stellar results,” said Stephen Fenwick, Senior Vice President, Operations, DHL Express Asia Pacific. “Last year, DHL Taiwan handled more than 3.3 million shipments. With the new DHL Taipei Gateway, we not only tripled our shipment handling capacity, but also enhanced our connectivity between Taiwan and the international trade market. The growth potential in Taiwan is tremendous and our expanded Taipei Gateway will enable DHL to ride on the growth momentum and meet the burgeoning needs of our valued customers when the global economy recovers,” he added.

The DHL Taipei Gateway boasts several industry-leading features, including 13 X-ray machines for all shipments and surveying instruments tailored for large-sized shipments; 10 telescopic conveyors which double shipment uploading and offloading frequency; and an LED panel onsite to monitor flight information. Further, the number of truck docks will be increased to 10 and shipments can be uploaded to operational vehicles automatically. In addition, dedicated Customs and Aviation Police offices are housed within the facility – a first for the Express industry in Taiwan. One hundred closed circuit televisions (CCTVs) have also been installed to provide 24-hour monitoring services to further enhance shipment security.

• Market leader achieves record-breaking feat as it takes home the coveted Best Express Operator Award for the 22nd time among four other honors

Singapore, 23 April 2009 – As testament of its market-leading position and service excellence, DHL, the world’s leading logistics company, won five prestigious awards at the Asian Freight & Supply Chain Awards (AFSCA) 2009. Announced at a ceremony in Hong Kong last night, the company was named Best Express Operator Award, Best Road Haulier Asia, Best Contract Logistics Provider, Best 3PL and Best Lead Logistics Provider.

“Winning the Best Express Operator Award for the 22nd time and the Best Road Haulier Asia is a proud achievement for DHL,” said Dan McHugh, CEO, DHL Express Asia Pacific. “These accolades recognize DHL's leading position in the international express market and our offerings in major trade lanes in Asia Pacific. As a market leader, DHL has the widest network and in-depth understanding of local markets that enable us to provide best-in-class service solutions for customers across 42 countries and territories in the region. Asia presents us with great opportunities for growth and we will continue to invest in this region and bolster our product portfolio to offer the widest range of products and services.”

“Our business units in Asia Pacific are well placed for growth. Winning all three awards we’ve been nominated for - Best Contract Logistics Provider, Best 3PL and Best Lead Logistics Provider - is an affirmation of the strength of our brand. These wins, coupled with our ability to continue to invest in people and infrastructure will continue to differentiate us from the competition. As a well established logistics player in the region, we have built a solid platform for success in all the markets we operate,” said Paul Graham, CEO, DHL Supply Chain Asia Pacific.

AFSCA is organized by Cargonews Asia, one of the region’s leading freight industry publications. The awards are widely acknowledged to be one of the industry’s foremost accolades honoring outstanding shippers, logistics providers and cargo transport companies. This year, more than 12,500 Cargonews Asia readers were polled to select the best service providers in over 40 industry-specific categories. AFSCA is the only Asian freight awards to rely solely on customer satisfaction to determine its honorees.

• Sets new industry benchmarks with fully automated sorting system, X-ray, and weighing devices for conveyable shipments

Singapore, 22 April 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, today opened its US$50 million state-of-the-art DHL Express Incheon Gateway. Located within the free trade area of Incheon International Airport, the facility spans 20,000 square meters and is more than five times larger than the previous DHL Express facility in Incheon International Airport.

The DHL Express Incheon Gateway will serve as a consolidation and distribution center from South Korea to markets such as Mongolia, northern China and the Russian Far East. In addition, the gateway will further strengthen the intercontinental and inter-regional service connecting South Korea with the USA and Europe.

Dan McHugh, Chief Executive Officer, DHL Express Asia Pacific, said, “Asia remains a key growth area with strong business opportunities in the current economic climate. Between 2004 and 2008, our international express volumes in South Korea have grown by over 50%. As we expect to maintain our growth momentum, our investment in this facility is a strategic move which ensures that DHL is well positioned to tap into the growing demand and Incheon’s increasing role as a logistics center in Asia. With a vastly increased handling capacity, the Incheon gateway will also deliver greater time savings for our customers.”

Backed by a strong inter-continental and regional air network, Incheon International Airport has seen a steady increase in air cargo and is projecting a 67% rise in its handling capability from 2.7 million tonnes in 2005 to 4.5 million tonnes by 2010 .

Deok Mo JEONG, Vice-President of Incheon International Airport Corporation, said, “DHL’s investment reflects the company’s conviction in Incheon’s strategic role in the region and Incheon Airport’s worldwide quality infrastructure. I’m very happy with DHL’s decision to invest in the facility.”

The opening ceremony was officiated by guest of honor, Mr. Sang Soo AHN, the mayor of Incheon Metropolitan City, who was accompanied by Mr. Deok Mo JEONG, Vice-President of Incheon International Airport Corporation and Mr. ByungOk Kang, Director-General for Airport Facilities Bureau of Seoul Regional Aviation Administration.

With the technologically-advanced Incheon gateway, DHL will improve its productivity and strengthen its customer service, which are the first-of-its-kind in the express industry in South Korea. Equipped with a fully-automated sorting system for parcels that includes automatic weight-measuring and X-ray devices, the gateway has the maximum capacity to sort 13,500 pieces per hour, a fivefold increase from that handled at the previous facility. With a six-camera tunnel embedded in the sorting system, the weight and size of each shipment is captured and transmitted to the Shipment Control Library while air waybill details are recorded in the sorting system.

In addition, the DHL Express Incheon Gateway boasts the following features to enhance operational efficiency:
– a sheltered drive-in facility with 25 loading and unloading bays which enables operations to remain unaffected even in inclement weather
– 11 extendable conveyors for loose loading operations which improves processing time and truck utilization as shipments are loaded/unloaded directly into/from the truck
– two singulator systems measuring 21 meters long arrange parcels into a single file to enhance the accuracy of the automatic sortation, distribution and weighing of shipments handled in the gateway
– four shoe sorters which enable shipments to be distributed according to the sort plan controlled by a sophisticated IT system have also been installed to ensure each shipment is automatically sorted based on its intended destination
– sorting software specially designed for DHL automatically sorts imported and exported shipments to facilitate customs processes as well as inbound and outbound procedures

As the integrity and security of customers’ shipment are a key priority at DHL, the market leader has scored a world’s first with the installation of automatic X-ray machines in the Incheon gateway. The three sophisticated X-ray machines feature the latest technology that enables DHL to effectively detect any suspicious element in any shipment during the screening process and can process up to 5,400 shipments per hour.

Furthermore, the Incheon gateway houses a 24/7 Quality Control Center (QCC) which is equipped with the Quality Shipment Monitoring System (QSMS), a global shipment management system that enables DHL to monitor shipments in real-time. QSMS has the unique capability to alert analysts at DHL Hubs, Gateways and Service Centers in the event of potential delays or changes to the status of shipments. The QCC operates round-the-clock and is connected to DHL’s network across 42 countries in Asia Pacific.

This real-time monitoring of individual shipments door-to-door allows enhanced customer service as it enables DHL to proactively identify potential problems and recommend rectification strategies before the situation is exacerbated.

“Our DHL Incheon Gateway is a vital link for our network of three hubs and over 50 Express gateways in the region,” said Stephen Fenwick, Senior Vice President, Operations, DHL Express Asia Pacific. “Our robust network is backed by an extensive Asia Air Network, which includes more than 20 aircraft covering 30 destinations, and utilizes over 500 commercial flights per day in Asia Pacific. DHL’s regional hubs and gateways are interconnected with key business centers and cities across Asia Pacific, providing customers with overnight services across the region.”

• New LCL services from South China direct to Europe and North America
• China exporters and SMEs to benefit from DHL Global Forwarding network and LCL capabilities

Singapore, 22 April 2009 – DHL, the global leader in express and logistics, today announced the launch of its direct LCL (Less than container Load) services connecting Shenzhen to Hamburg, Germany; Genoa, Italy; Southampton, United Kingdom; Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Antwerp, Belgium; Le Havre, France and Vancouver, Canada.

With the introduction of these weekly guaranteed services, exporters in Greater China as well as North Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea can now ship their cargo from the Shenzhen Port, the world’s fourth largest container port, directly to Europe and North America, instead of being routed via Hong Kong, hence reducing transit times while increasing business efficiency and competitiveness.

“DHL recognizes LCL as being a crucial part of a total Ocean Freight system. With more than 2,000,000 cubic meters of LCL freight handled annually via 45,000 point pairs within the DHL in-house system, DHL has the world’s largest LCL network.” Mr. David Goldberg, head of Ocean Freight, North Asia Pacific, said: “Our first priority is to serve all major markets with direct consolidations from our strong network of national gateways. With the expansion of direct LCL service in China, DHL has further strengthened its Ocean Freight business and market leading position when it comes to in-house LCL services.”

As a global leader in LCL, DHL carries more than 97% of its total volumes in house. The in-house systems and strong global network enables the control of cargo flow, information flow, speed, accuracy, cost efficiency and reliability. Going beyond port to port, DHL LCL service also offers a complete end-to-end supply chain management that includes pick-up at origin, consolidation and deconsolidation, delivery at destination and customs clearance. All LCL services are accompanied by DHL’s first-class IT solutions such as DHL Track & Trace and other tools to allow full visibility of its customers’ cargo throughout the supply chain.

Mr. Clas Thorell, Head of LCL, Asia Pacific, said: “DHL offers global depth and flexibility which is unmatched in the industry. With on-going efforts to expand our own operated, weekly guaranteed, LCL services globally, DHL is constantly aligning itself with the changing market and responding to changing customer needs, demonstrating our commitment to be customers’ First Choice. We will continue to bring fast, cost-efficient and reliable services to the market and help our customer success in both good times and hard times. ”

Mr. Kelvin Leung, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding, North Asia Pacific said, “Today’s launch of new LCL services reflects our continued confidence in the China market and also deepens our commitment to being a reliable and trusted partner for Chinese businesses. We encourage companies especially those small and medium sized enterprises (SME) which have been seeking flexibility and cost-effectiveness to use our LCL service, a fast, reliable and cost-efficient end-to-end solution providing the right combination of delivery times and costs for enterprises' ocean freight needs.”

These new services join DHL Global Forwarding’s growing portfolio of direct LCL services launched for the China market. In Shanghai, for example, export customers can enjoy DHL’s direct LCL service to Pusan in Korea; Dubai in UAE; Chennai and Nhava Sheva in India; Istanbul in Turkey; Basel in Switzerland; Helsingborg in Sweden; and Dusseldorf in Germany. Direct LCL services are also available in other Chinese shipping hubs such as Qingdao, Tianjin and Ningbo.

• Sri Lanka launch pad for new ocean freight innovations

Singapore, 20 April 2009 – DHL Global Forwarding, the world’s leading air and ocean freight company, has chosen Sri Lanka as its Asia Pacific launch pad for two of its latest innovations for ocean freight shipping.

DHL today launched a GPS Tracking System for its LCL ocean freight shipments out of Colombo and also unveiled its latest solution for the Fashion and Apparel industry - Garment-on-Hangers Boxes which are now available for LCL services.

This follows DHL’s announcement in March this year of its investment of US$8 million in Sri Lanka over three years as well as a state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution center by 2010. As part of this investment, by end 2009, DHL will also launch the “DHL Fashion and Apparel Center for Excellence” in Colombo, a center comprising a core team of industry experts and responsible for developing tailored solutions and provide consultancy services to customers.

Ashwani Nath, Country Manager, DHL Global Forwarding Lanka said, “We are committed to Sri Lanka and its potential as sourcing and distribution gateway for the South Asia region. These two innovations in Sri Lanka are specifically for LCL (Less than container Load) ocean freight shipments, a segment the market leader expects to continue to grow. By introducing such market-leading solutions to Sri Lanka, customers here will be among the first to adopt leading-edge services that will give their businesses a further competitive advantage.”

The real-time data provided through the GPS Tracking System now helps customers in Sri Lanka to improve their supply chain processes, better evaluate delivery times, monitor container routes, and most importantly, reduce costs of risk management. With this service, customers in Sri Lanka can now monitor shipments anywhere in the world via the Internet and in real time.

The introduction of the GPS Tracking System in Sri Lanka marks the first time the service is introduced following a successful trial in February 2009. The GPS sensor devices report on the security status of the shipments as well as environmental conditions inside the container such as temperature, humidity, shock, vibration and light. These sensing capabilities help to detect and alert incidences of cargo theft and damage, offering a higher level of security and product integrity.

Garment-on-Hangers is a system of transporting hanging garments which are among the most effective ways to transport apparel over great distances as its protects garments, especially high-end, valuable clothing. The boxes are highly versatile, as they can be loaded on trucks, airline ULDs and containers thereby eliminating any need to transfer items or open boxes as it moves within the supply chain.

Garments-on-Hangers boxes also improves productivity as it is a service which can take products from the factory direct to retailers, and can be used for easy sorting and loading according to the store or specific order.

The tailored solutions for the Fashion sector are in line with DHL Global Forwarding plans to capitalize on the opportunity in the Fashion and Apparel Logistics industry estimated to be worth US$3.9 billion per annum in South Asia. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka alone are estimated to account for well over US$2.4 billion in this fast-growing industry.

“Sri Lanka is one of only five global bonded multinational gateways operated by DHL for ocean freight, and is a logical platform to showcase our latest innovations,” said Amadou Diallo, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding, South Asia Pacific. “DHL operates the world’s largest LCL network with more than 2,000,000 cubic meters of LCL freight handled annually via 45,000 points. In this economic climate, LCL services are sought after by customers seeking ways to ship smaller quantities on a cost-effective basis.”

Clas Thorell, DHL Global Forwarding Regional LCL Head for the Asia-Pacific Region, said, “Innovation has always been the hallmark of success of DHL’s LCL offering. We have continually enhanced our services, providing customers with solutions that simplify their supply chain needs. Linking this new GPS technology with our LCL services will show the unique capabilities of the service offering we provide to our customers.”

• Over 20% month-on-month growth over past 12 months as businesses increasingly adopt road transport solutions

Singapore, 13 April 2009 – Businesses in Southeast Asia are widely embracing road transport services, and the month of March 2009 marked record volumes moved via road by DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company. Compared to February 2009, road volumes on the DHL Economy Select (Road) service grew by 79% in March, marking the largest month-on-month growth in 32 months.

DHL Economy Select (Road) service has done exceedingly well, registering an average of over 20% month-on-month growth over the past 12 months, a testament to the increasing relevance of road express services to intra-Asia trade routes.

Yasmin Khan, Senior Vice President, Southeast Asia, DHL Express Asia Pacific, said, “The economic downturn has heightened customers’ interest and demand for reliable yet cost-effective measures and we’re seeing a tremendous upswing in demand for our Economy Select (Road) service. We expect demand for road express services to continue to grow as customers increasingly appreciate the timeliness and reliability of the service and the associated cost efficiency.”

Dan McHugh, Chief Executive Officer, DHL Express – Asia Pacific, said, “The growth in DHL’s road service is extremely encouraging. As the market leader, we are continually looking to expand our product portfolio to offer the widest range of services for our customers. DHL is well-positioned as we have the breadth and scale to offer streamlined supply chain solutions that combine air, road and sea transport.”

DHL Economy Select (Road) is especially suited for less time-sensitive shipments such as marketing collateral, books, small machine and assembly parts. The service started in August 2006 and has operating routes connecting Singapore, West Malaysia and Thailand in Southeast Asia. Customers using this service enjoy full Track and Trace capabilities, complete door-to-door services and around-the-clock monitoring by DHL’s Quality Control Centers in Singapore and Thailand. Economy Select (Road) draws upon DHL’s unrivalled experience in the region and knowledge of local customs procedures to help ensure that shipments reach intended destinations on time, every time.

• Facility to improve efficiency by up to 50%
• Partnership marks extension of five-year partnership between both companies

Singapore, 24 March 2009 – DHL Supply Chain, a business unit of the world’s leading logistics services provider, has announced the extension of the successful partnership with leading wholesaler and retailer, Makro, with its plan to build a new US$4.6 million (167 million baht) automated warehouse.

Located in Wang Noi on the northern outskirts of Bangkok, the new warehouse under construction spans 14,500 square meters and boasts a handling capacity of more than 80 million cases per annum. It offers an improved lead time of as little as six hours from the moment the supplier’s goods arrive at the warehouse to the time they reach the retail stores in Bangkok, an improved efficiency of up to 50% in lead time.

The automated warehouse, slated to commence operations in July of this year, will enhance the efficiency for Makro’s supply chain and reduce the time-to-market for its dry products. Makro currently distributes products from manufacturers to its 41 branches across the country.

“With this new automated warehouse we are deepening our cooperation with DHL by investing in long term logistics solutions that will benefit both our suppliers and customers,” said Phillip William Cox, Executive Commercial Director, Dry-Food & SCM, Makro. “Suppliers can now enjoy a simpler order-receiving and delivery system at the new facility while customers will have access to the newest stock possible in our stores. This well-equipped warehouse will result in higher levels of productivity and accuracy, as well as cost savings, which we will pass on to customers,” added Cox.

Paul Graham, CEO, DHL Supply Chain Asia Pacific, said, “DHL Supply Chain and Makro can look back on a business partnership that has constantly grown over the last five years. We have continually innovated processes to better support Makro’s goal of operating a world-class supply chain. With the increasing demands by consumers and the current economic slowdown, it’s even more critical for us to help our customers such as Makro improve their product flows, reduce product lead-times and costs.”

Craig Hope-Johnstone, Senior Operations Director, DHL Supply Chain Thailand, said, “The scale and scope of this investment underscores our commitment to customers and against the background of the harsh economic trading environment, this investment speaks volumes for not only the strength of our relationship with Makro, but also Makro’s commitments to deliver ever increasing efficiencies to its customers throughout Thailand and DHL’s strength to commit these financial resources.”

Advanced automation & technology for a highly efficient Makro automated warehouse
The increased throughput of the automated warehouse is made possible by an advanced Autosort system, which can handle more than 9,000 cases per hour. Other key automated features of the facility include:

- High speed belt conveyer inductions
- Camera scanners, which scan all sides of conveyable shipments
- Shoe sorter matrix, which directs the shipments to the relevant chutes according to their destination - one of 41 branches nationwide, be it to branches in Makro Rangsit, Saraburi, Rayong, or Chiang Mai
- A visualization monitoring system with real time capability that increases operational efficiency and provides additional security

Makro currently operates 41 stores across 38 provinces in Thailand and DHL Supply Chain has provided Makro with warehousing and logistics services in Thailand since 2004. Currently it handles two distribution warehouses for Makro’s ambient and fresh products at Klong Luang, and Wang Noi respectively. In July 2009, the dry food warehouse at Klong Luang will be replaced by the new automated warehouse.

• DHL signs on as Official Timing and Logistics Partner for Asia’s premier club competition for 2009-2012

Singapore, 06 March 2009 – The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League, Asia’s top club competition, kicks off the 2009 season with DHL, the world’s leading express delivery and logistics company, as the Official Timing and Logistics Partner.

The exclusive four-year partnership includes a first-ever screening of a 10-second DHL animated timing graphic in each of the AFC Champions League (ACL) 117 ‘live’ match broadcasts per season; the right to use the official designation of “Official Logistics Partner of AFC Champions League” in all advertising, promotions and marketing materials; and having a branded segment named the “DHL Delivery of the Week” featured in the weekly football magazine show, ‘Football Asia’, showcasing the ‘best delivery’ from all the ACL games that week.

“DHL is a strong supporter of major sporting events and activities. Globally, we partner F1 as the Official Logistics provider for the world’s most popular automotive race. In Asia, we support Special Olympics and the NBA,” said Lindsay Birley, Senior Vice President, Commercial, DHL Express Asia Pacific. “Football is the most popular sport in Asia Pacific, and a successful football team displays the same values as DHL: teamwork, accuracy and reliability. Therefore, a partnership with the Asian Football Confederation to promote the AFC Champions League is a natural fit.”

The new format of the AFC Champions League, set to kick off on March 10, promises even more action and excitement from some of the region’s top clubs, including the defending champion, Gamba Osaka. Thirty two teams from across Asia, including Australia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea and Singapore will battle it out for an increased total prize money of US$8 million and be crowned champions of Asia – the most coveted title for Asian football clubs.

AFC President, Mohamed bin Hammam said, "It gives me great pleasure to welcome DHL, as a new partner of the AFC Champions League and into the fold of the Asian football family. These are exciting times for club football as we embark on a new journey that will raise the level of professionalism within our game here in Asia. As a tournament that involves clubs from 13 countries spanning a 9-month period, we are fortunate to have a partner like DHL, who will deliver invaluable logistical support in the staging of the competition".

In less than a decade since it was first launched, the AFC Champions League has grown in popularity, reach and stature throughout the region. All matches are broadcast on cable, terrestrial and satellite television throughout Asia as well as online via www.the-afc.tv, accessible worldwide.

Ian Mathie, Senior Vice President, Football – South Asia, Asean & Australia, World Sport Group, said, “We are delighted to welcome DHL to the AFC family. The AFC Champions League is experiencing dramatic growth and we expect to see live, television and broadband audiences continue to soar across the region. Clearly, DHL has recognized the value and benefits of associating with this competition and we look forward to working with them to successfully fulfill their communication goals and brand aspirations.”

Thirty-two teams (sixteen teams each from the East and West of Asia) have been drawn into eight groups of four for the round robin first round.

• DESC achieves global AS9120 accreditation for its dedicated Aerospace Hub in Singapore

Singapore, 05 March 2009 – DHL Exel Supply Chain, a business unit of the world’s leading logistics provider, continues its focus on the Aerospace sector, culminating with the AS9120 accreditation for its dedicated Aerospace Hub in Singapore. The investments in the Aerospace sector have paid off – in 2008, DHL Exel Supply Chain saw its business in the Aerospace logistics sector double.

‘‘At DHL, we made a strategic decision a few years ago to focus on the warehousing and supply chain needs in the Aerospace sector in Singapore. We built bespoke capabilities culminating in a multi-customer Aerospace Hub for which we’ve now achieved the industry’s most highly recognized accreditation for quality assurance,” said Peet Leong, Managing Director, DHL Exel Supply Chain Singapore. “The commitment to the aerospace sector has paid off – our Aerospace business grew over 100 percent in 2008, and even with the economic downturn, we’re seeing demand maintained at healthy levels in the first quarter of this year.”

“Singapore’s position as the leading center for the Aerospace maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) industry is a great location to showcase DHL’s industry innovations for high-tech specialized segments such as the aviation sector. The handling and transportation of these valuable and sensitive parts are crucial to the aviation industry and DHL has grown its business substantially in providing turnkey solutions for the business,” said Paul Graham, CEO, DHL Exel Supply Chain Asia Pacific.

Singapore now home to industry leading Aerospace Hub
DHL Exel Supply Chain is one of the first 3PL providers in Singapore to achieve the AS9120 certification for the DHL Express & Logistics Center Aerospace Hub. The accreditation is used and supported by the world's leading aerospace companies and also throughout their supply chain partnerships. Presented to DHL by Det Norske Veritas (DNV), a leading certification body for management systems, the accreditation is only awarded to facilities that comply with the stringent requirements of aerospace companies worldwide, in addition to the enhanced regulatory requirements for aerospace distributors.

Established in 2007, the S$2million 45,000 sq ft Aerospace Hub situated near Changi Airport was designed to meet the stringent safety regulations and quality standards set by the aviation industry, reaffirming DHL’s commitment to deliver solutions that help customers improve their internal performance and maintain compliance in the Aerospace industry. The services offered at the hub include 24/7 urgent parts dispatch, warehousing, transport and inventory optimization systems.

The AS9120 certification is the latest of DHL Exel Supply Chain’s continuous investments in the Aerospace logistics sector in Singapore. Besides the Aerospace Hub, DHL established an Aerospace Support Team in Singapore in 2006, which comprises experienced industry and logistics specialists trained in aviation-related legislation. This customer service and support team provides full call-center based solutions to track aerospace customers’ Aircraft –On-Ground (AOG), and regular day-to-day requests across seven languages – English, Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, Thai, Spanish and Cantonese.

Singapore offers new opportunities in the Aerospace logistics industry
DHL Exel Supply Chain’s renewed focus on Singapore’s aerospace logistics is strategic as the industry is expected to maintain its growth momentum. Singapore’s Changi Airport is ranked amongst Asia’s top five for total air cargo volumes handled and Singapore has, over the years, established itself as the preferred logistics and supply chain management hub for leading players across industries . While Singapore is recognized as the number one center in Asia for Aerospace maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), the country is also seeing a growing number of aerospace design and manufacturing operations established here .

“We service major Aerospace customers including MROs, Original Equipment Manufacturers, engine and aircraft manufacturers who have established Singapore as their manufacturing and trading site. Despite the economic downturn, we expect more opportunities arising in the aerospace logistics industry as companies need to rationalize their costs,” added Peet Leong.

“Faced with a tight credit situation in the current economic climate, we see many Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) players developing a renewed focus on their core competency and revenue generating activities. Tight cost measures mean providers like DHL can offer such value propositions in terms of economies of scale, and operating expense options to help aerospace customers,” Leong added.

For over 30 years, DHL has built a wide set of solutions for serving the Aerospace production and aftermarket activities in Singapore that spans the entire supply chain from planning, consultation, transportation, storage and distribution services to integrative management, data administration and e-commerce. DHL has an extensive network serving over 220 countries and territories, and streamlined supply chain approach that combines logistics, airfreight, ocean freight and express services.

• Market-leader launches “DHL Fashion and Apparel Center of Excellence” in India created to facilitate trade within South Asia, Europe and North America
• India the gateway to US$2.4 billion logistics market in the sub-continent

Singapore, 17 February 2009 – DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, expects India to become increasingly important as an export country into Europe with growth driven largely by the Apparels, Engineering & Manufacturing and Manufactured Goods sectors. The company today launched the “DHL Fashion and Apparel Center of Excellence”, based largely in Tirupur, Tamil Nadu, India, to facilitate trade within the region, Europe and North America. The first-of-its-kind center across Asia Pacific will comprise of a core team of industry experts and be responsible for developing bespoke products and solutions and provide consultancy services to customers.

As the global leader in air and ocean freight, DHL Global Forwarding is capitalizing on the opportunity in the Fashion and Apparel Logistics industry estimated to be worth US$3.9 billion per annum in South Asia. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka alone are estimated to account for well over US$2.4 billion in this fast-growing industry. DHL's services cover the entire logistics value chain of the fashion industry - from material purchasing to the sampling business, to quality control of production and direct delivery to the boutiques of international fashion companies.

“South Asia is a key sourcing, manufacturing and distribution base for the global fashion industry. The logistics sector is worth over US$3.9billion per annum, and it forms a critical component in the global supply chains of the world’s best known brands,” said Amadou Diallo, CEO (South Asia Pacific), DHL Global Forwarding. “In South Asia, Finished Apparel is the fastest growing segment and is expected to continue to grow rapidly. As manufacturing moves to lower cost countries, supply chains in the fashion industry have become extended and more complex, increasing trade and legal demands including import controls, quotas and tariffs.”

DHL Global Forwarding’s focus on the Fashion and Apparel sector is timely as Apparels and Footwear constitutes the largest Airfreight and Ocean freight export commodity group from South Asia to Europe, accounting over 16% of total airfreight export volumes, and 13% of total Ocean freight export volumes.

Apparel and Footwear also dominates the top Airfreight and Ocean freight export trade lanes from South Asia to Europe. India-Germany is the top Airfreight export tradelane for South Asia, and Apparel and Footwear comprised 33% of total Airfreight export in 2008. Vietnam – Germany is the top Ocean freight export tradelane for South Asia and Apparel and Footwear was the largest commodity exported accounting for 28% of total Oceanfreight export in 2008.

“Fashion companies compete on design, price and range availability. Multiple seasons each year result in product complexities of size, color and style. More importantly, garments need to be available for sale where and when they are needed. A holistic supply chain management solution can deliver a competitive advantage by enabling customers to gain greater control of their supply chains and maintain the highest levels of product availability,” said Amadou Diallo.

DHL Fashion and Apparel Center of Excellence in India
The “DHL Fashion and Apparel Center for Excellence” in India will comprise of a core team of industry professionals who will undergo extensive training with DHL Fashion experts based in Europe and the North America. The location is strategic as Tirupur is known as the “Knitwear Capital” of India and caters to some of the world’s best-known brands and retailers.

With in-depth understanding of the Fashion and Apparel logistics requirements in Europe and North America, the center will develop customized solutions at origin and enable customers to better manage the product flow further upstream in their supply chain. Significant resources will also be dedicated to introducing a range of IT tools to cater to the demands of the different segments of the fashion and apparel industry – tools to enhance visibility, reporting and exception management.

The center will also oversee best practice implementation of processes that enable prompt and proactive management of supply chain issues that fashion and apparel customers and manufacturers have to deal with. In essence, the “DHL Fashion and Apparel Center of Excellence” will be the extended logistics arm of customers in Europe and North America – managing the flow of their merchandise and delivering them to the consumers at the right quantity, right place, right time and right cost.

DHL shared its plans on the back of its South Asia Pacific – Europe Trade Lane Summit attended by senior regional executives from DHL Europe and South Asia to kick off the launch of the “DHL Fashion and Apparel Center for Excellence” in India.

“With the economic slowdown in the key fashion and apparel markets in Europe and North America, our customers are looking for greater efficiencies and lower inventory levels throughout the supply chain. The DHL Fashion and Apparel Center of Excellence will help stakeholders in the supply chain streamline their complex logistics processes and better manage their product lifecycle across different sale channels,“ said Mark Lau, Head of Fashion & Apparel Business Development for DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific.

“We’re upbeat about DHL’s growth potential in the Fashion and Apparel industry with India serving as the hub for textile and apparel production for the Indian sub-continent. DHL’s Fashion and Apparel Center of Excellence in India will boost the developmental support for the industry and help facilitate trade within the region and with Europe, where DHL has extensive fashion and apparel network capabilities and experience,” added Mark Lau.

Leveraging on the partnership with many well-known fashion labels and top brands of the apparel industry, the logistics experts at DHL, who have been working for over 50 years to develop tailor-made transport solutions that address the latest trends in the fashion world and meet the specific needs of individual customers, will transfer their in-depth knowledge in Europe and North America to the logisticians in India. With the slowdown in the world economy, DHL sees this as a great opportunity to invest in upgrading the skills and knowledge of its most important asset – People.

Globally, DHL is involved in key industry events in the Fashion sector. DHL is the official express delivery and logistics partner for IMG’s Fashion Weeks around the world. IMG's Fashion Weeks is a series of prestigious shows by IMG Fashion in ten countries annually. As the official logistics partner, DHL will provide logistics services to participating countries. In Asia Pacific IMG's Fashion Week events will take place in Mumbai, Sydney and Hong Kong.

Singapore, 16 February 2009 – DHL, the global leader in the express and logistics industry, announced today that its Global Forwarding business unit has initiated trial shipments with its own 45’ equipment.

A handful of LCL (Less than container Load) customers are the first beneficiaries of this program, with the trial containers scheduled from DHL’s LCL Gateway in Hong Kong to major European Gateways on a round trip basis. These customers will be able to track their shipments via the internet as it journeys across its Westbound routes to Germany and the Netherlands. After this, more countries will be added to this trial.

This program was enabled by tagging the containers with GPS devices from Savi Networks, and the first containers departed Hong Kong on February 14 on Hyundai Mercury’s maiden voyage 001w.

The GPS trial on DHL’s Danmar Lines containers is made possible through the use of security sensing container devices from Savi Networks. “Live” actionable data of the cargo will be available through a web-based monitoring system accessible to customers, which enables them to monitor the security status of their shipments real-time and view the route of shipments through automatically generated maps.

The sensor devices report on the security status of the shipments as well as environmental conditions inside the container such as temperature, humidity, shock, vibration and light. These sensing capabilities help to detect and alert incidences of cargo theft and damage, offering a higher level of security and product integrity.
The real-time data provided through the GPS system helps customers improve their supply chain processes, better evaluate delivery times, monitor container routes, and most importantly, reduces costs of risk management. With this capability, customers can now monitor shipment status at any time and from virtually anywhere.

“With more than 2,000,000 cubic meters of LCL freight handled annually via 35000 points pairs within the DHL in-house system we are determined to further improve our service level in order to strengthen our market leading position when it comes to in-house LCL services,” said Marc Meier, DHL Global Forwarding’s Global Head of LCL.

Clas Thorell, DHL Global Forwarding’s Hong Kong-based Regional LCL Head for the Asia-Pacific Region, gave his comment on this achievement, “Innovation has always been a key driver in the success of DHL’s LCL product, using it as a key element to provide our customers with solutions that simplifies their supply chain needs. Linking this new GPS technology with our weekly guaranteed, own operated LCL services, this will show the unique capabilities of our service offering that we provide to our customers.”

“The initiative goes hand in hand with DHL’s on-going plans to expand its own operated, weekly guaranteed, LCL services globally. Providing fast and reliable services combined with operational excellence, being environment friendly and using the latest technology, is what our customers expect from us as being the First Choice in the industry. And we don’t intend to stop here,” added Marc Meier, DHL Global Forwarding’s Singapore -based Global Head of LCL.