BIEK Study Results: German CEP market grew 7.5% in 2005

According to the latest annual study published by BIEK (the German international express association which represents the leading private express and parcels companies in Germany), the German CEP market (courier, express and parcels) grew by 7.2% in 2005. Highlights of the study findings include: Revenue growth outpaced volumes due to a higher proportion of premium shipments; Revenues in the German CEP market increased by 7.2% to €11.9 billion while volumes grew by 5.3% to 1.95 billion shipments; Strong growth of 7.5% in the number of premium domestic and international shipments; Average yield per shipment rose from €6 per item in 2004 to €6.11 per item in 2005 (mostly due to the growth of premium products); Total employment in the CEP industry increased by 4,000 to a total of 169,000. The CEP sector contributes about 1% of German GDP. In addition, the study noted strong growth in the next few years citing globalisation, rising import volumes and e-commerce as contributing factors. BIEK predicts the German CEP volumes to top 2 billion in 2006, rising to 2.25 billion in 2009 and 2.3-2.4 billion in 2010. The sector’s revenue is expected to increase to about €12.5 billion this year, to €13 billion in 2007 and €15 billion in 2010. The study also identified various factors which could hinder growth prospects such as, political threats, operation of night flights at German airports, unhindered access to city centres, a growth-oriented taxation policy and fair competitive conditions. The BIEK study concluded that in order for the CEP sector to realize its growth potential, a sustainable transport policy and the rapid presentation of the planned German logistics and freight transport masterplan were critical elements.