Appel: “Signs of economic comeback”
Frank Appel, chief executive of Deutsche Post DHL, said he is optimistic about initial signs of world economic recovery. Appel made the admission during a speech to the US Chamber of Commerce.
“The worst seems to be over, and there are clear signs of an economic comeback on the horizon,” he said.
Appel said DHL is prepared for growth in all four business units in the US – Express, its international courier service, DHL Global Forwarding, its air and ocean freight business, DHL Global Mail, which provides mail solutions and is one of the largest “work share” partners for the United States Postal Service, and its Exel division which manages the entire supply chain – from warehousing to distribution – for customers.
“Let me repeat it loud and clear: DHL is and will remain a strong player in the US market,” Appel said. Appel emphasised that free trade is a key component of sustainable economic growth, making it vital that governments around the world work toward reducing or modifying trade barriers, such as customs duties and competing trade regulations.
The DHL CEO said he supports President Barack Obama’s national export initiative which aims to double US exports in the next five years. Abiding with existing trade agreements is a critical element of this initiative as is eliminating non-tariff barriers. He urged the US to conclude pending free trade agreements (FTAs) with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea.
“It would be a ‘win’ for American business and the American consumer,” Appel said.
However, continued high levels of unemployment, potential economic protectionism and still skyrocketing levels of public debt on both sides of the Atlantic could hurt this still fragile recovery. That’s why Appel said it’s vital for all companies, not just DHL, to keep operations and cost structures “lean and flexible.”
