Investment in its network, systems and people is the reason given by DHL Express for rate increases which will come into effect on 1 January 2017. The delivery giant says it will be spending €800m in 2017 to boost services and prepare for future growth in demand.
In two separate country-specific statements, DHL said that there will be an average 4.9% increase in the UK and an average 3.9% increase for its products in Germany. The DHL Express products offered for private customers via post office branches in Germany remain unaffected by the price increase.
The two DHL statements quote Wolfgang P. Albeck, Country Manager, DHL Express Germany, and also Phil Couchman, CEO, DHL Express UK, stating: “Our prices reflect both the value embedded in our service and our uncompromising long-term commitment to service quality. In 2016, we announced a broad array of investments in our network, systems and people, committing more than €800m in capital expenditure during the year.”
The company says its planned landmark investments include a €66m gateway in Tokyo, Japan, the launch of new automated sorts at hubs in Cincinnati, in the US, Singapore and Leipzig, Germany, and the pioneering introduction of more efficient A330-300 cargo aircraft in our European air fleet.
“In 2017, we will maintain this rate of investment and continue to leverage our network to make our customers successful in their international trade activities.”
DHL is part of Deutsche Post DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of more than €59 billion in 2015.
Further reading:
DHL Express price movements announced in September 2015
Parcel lockers get set to take centre stage through DHL / InPost deal
Photo credits:
- Deutsche Post DHL Group
