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A HISTORY OF INNOVATION

We have always been revolutionising, shaping, and simplifying the world of logistics. From inventing the international air express industry to becoming the world’s leading logistics company; we’re thinkers, makers and pioneers that constantly challenge what’s possible. And now we’re tackling the ultimate border: delivering to the moon.

A Giant Leap in the History of Logistics

In 1969, the year Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon, DHL began to revolutionise the world of logistics. Now, we are breaking new ground again: in cooperation with space technology company Astrobotic, we will make deliveries to the moon a reality.

 

 

Strategy 2025

DHL Group has made significant progress with Strategy 2020. With “Strategy 2025 – Delivering Excellence in a Digital World” the company is laying the groundwork to continue its successful growth trajectory beyond 2020.

 

 

A Breakthrough Idea: DHL Creates the International Air Express Industry

Just months after Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon in 1969, Adrian Dalsey, Larry Hillblom and Robert Lynn founded DHL – the world’s first international door-to-door delivery service. Their simple, yet groundbreaking idea was to deliver shipping documents by air, so they would arrive at customs before the freight itself. This saved shipping companies days or even weeks – and DHL had just invented the international air express industry.

Becoming the World's Largest Logistics Company

Soon after its formation, DHL enjoyed rapid growth around the globe. Today, DHL is the world’s largest logistics company with over 600,000 employees and offices in over 220 countries and territories.

1969:

DHL Is Founded

1971:

DHL Expands to the Far East

1977:

DHL Moves Away From Pure Document Delivery

1986:

First Express Company to Operate Inside China

1998:

Deutsche Post AG Becomes Shareholder in DHL

2002:

Deutsche Post Acquires DHL

2008:

Leipzig, Germany Becomes DHL's Air Hub

2019

DHL's 50th Anniversary

2021

Accelerated roadmap to decarbonisation