DHL invests in its European express business

· Investments of 1 billion euros
· 30,000 customer drop points planned region-wide by the end of 2008

DHL Express is putting additional focus on local service to the customer in its European business activities. To accomplish this goal, the express and logistics subsidiary of Deutsche Post World Net will invest more than 1 billion euros in the years ahead. This money will flow into infrastructure programs, IT development and customer-focused services. Among other goals, the company plans to achieve a region-wide presence by the end of 2008 and expand its network to 30,000 customer drop points. A total of 20,000 sites are to be ready for private and business customers a year earlier.
“We are literally walking up to our customers. The development of these drop-point solutions located near the customer is one of our top priorities. DHL already offers more customer drop points in Europe than any other express and package service provider. We will continue to press forward with this effort,” Dr. Peter E. Kruse, the board member of Deutsche Post World Net who oversees DHL Express Germany and Europe, said today at a press conference held at the BVL congress in Berlin.
By the end of 2008, the extensive customer network is scheduled to be expanded to about 30,000 drop points. A major role in this effort will be played by the so-called SERVICEPOINTS that are already pleasing customers in seven European countries. These points are set up in supermarkets, train stations, retail chains and currency exchange offices. Customers in Italy, Spain, England, Sweden, Poland, the Netherlands and Switzerland can drop off and pick up packages there. A particularly flexible product known as DHL EXPRESS4YOU is also being offered. It is easy to use because it is based on two sizes of packages and the wrapping for each size is provided.