Global logistics firm DHL has announced plans to invest £156m in its UK infrastructure up until 2016 in a bid to boost the country’s export.
Marking the firm’s biggest investment in the UK in 14 years, the commitment will £90m put towards an East Midlands Airport hub while £32m will revamp its southern site near Heathrow.
At a news conference at the company’s West London headquarters, it confirmed the infrastructure upgrade has been prompted by increased demand for British goods from China, as well as a boom in global e-retailing.
Marking its 40th anniversary, existing sites in Manchester, Croydon and Sheffield will see investment in additional warehousing, sorting facilities and operational processes to improve international trade, cut transit times and drive more efficient supply chains for UK businesses.
Ken Allen, chief executive of DHL Express, said: “This investment in the UK forms a key part of DHL’s global growth and service improvement strategy, following the recent investment of 177 million US dollars (£103 million) in the Middle East.
“With ongoing growth in the US and the development of our European hub in Leipzig, we’re strengthening our leadership position through improved service capabilities.”
Phil Couchman, chief executive of DHL Express in the UK & Ireland, added: “As we celebrate DHL’s 40th year in the UK, this investment demonstrates our confidence and commitment to enterprise and British export businesses.”
