In our continuous effort to maintain transparency and provide our valued customers with a comprehensive understanding of our business decisions, we would like to shed light on the key factors influencing our annual general price increase. These factors, crucial to our industry, play a pivotal role in shaping our cost structure and strategic investments.

1. Industry-Specific Costs: Navigating External Variables
Our cost structure is intricately linked to various external elements that extend beyond conventional inflationary pressures. Among these factors, energy prices and administrative costs associated with evolving regulatory and security measures exert a substantial impact. We diligently adhere to updates from national and international authorities, ensuring compliance while navigating the dynamic landscape of our industry. Furthermore, the intensifying competition for skilled professionals in the labor market has necessitated increased expenditures in talent attraction and retention.

2. Investing in Resilient Logistics Infrastructure: Safeguarding Supply Chains
Recognising the indispensable role of a stable and resilient infrastructure in securing supply chains and fostering global trade, our strategic investments are centered on fortifying the flexibility and resilience of our network. This commitment enables us to consistently deliver excellence by mitigating disruptions and enhancing the overall efficiency of our operations.

3. Sustainability: Pioneering Green Solutions
As a frontrunner in the logistics sector, we hold a steadfast commitment to providing environmentally conscious and sustainable solutions for our customers. Beyond financial considerations, our significant investments in Sustainable Aviation Fuel underscore our dedication to reducing our carbon footprint. Furthermore, we are actively expanding our fleet of electric vehicles and undertaking the construction of carbon-neutral buildings. These initiatives align with our vision for a greener, more sustainable future, contributing to the collective effort to address climate change.

In the first quarter of this year, DHL Express achieved a significant milestone as the first global express courier service to offer customers the opportunity to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel through the launch of GoGreen Plus. This innovative initiative allows our customers to actively contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions associated with their shipments, aligning with our broader goal of achieving net-zero emission logistics by 2050.

4. Strategic Network Expansion and Fleet Upgrades: Augmenting Service Quality
To fortify our commitment to delivering timely and reliable services, we have expanded our network with the addition of new routes and further enhanced our aircraft fleet. The recent order of nine converted Boeing 777 freighters signifies a strategic move to modernize our capabilities. Simultaneously, ongoing upgrades to our facilities worldwide aim to optimise operational efficiency and accommodate the growing demands of our customers. These investments not only augment our network but also serve to future-proof our operations, ensuring a sustained commitment to excellence.

In conclusion, our annual general price increase is a reflection of the complex interplay between industry-specific challenges, investments in infrastructure resilience, and our unwavering commitment to sustainability. By sharing these insights, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the forces shaping our pricing decisions and reassure our customers of our dedication to delivering value in a responsible and sustainable manner. We appreciate your continued partnership and trust as we navigate the evolving landscape of our industry together.