Deutsche Post AG to change name to DHL

Deutsche Post AG has initiated the process to change its corporate name to DHL. This move is part of a broader restructuring aimed at better reflecting the company's evolution into a global logistics provider. The application for the name change has been submitted, with the official transition anticipated in September upon registration in the commercial register.

Company CEO Tobias Meyer stated that the company's development from the former Deutsche Bundespost to a leading global logistics group necessitates aligning its structure with its current business activities. Traditional postal services, encompassing letter and parcel delivery, now constitute only about one-fifth of the company's business. The remainder is generated by global divisions, including express and freight services.

While the company rebranded its market presence to DHL two years ago, the legal entity name remained Deutsche Post AG. The renaming and new corporate structure are estimated to cost approximately 37 million euros. This strategic shift emphasizes the paramount importance of the DHL brand in international markets.

Deutsche Post AG originated from the German Federal Post, which underwent phased privatization in the 1990s. The acquisition of U.S. logistics firm DHL in 2002 marked a significant turning point, increasing the importance of international operations. The DHL acronym represents its founders: Adrian Dalsey, Larry Hillblom, and Robert Lynn. The Bonn-based logistics giant employs approximately 534,000 full-time staff worldwide.

Going forward, the name "Deutsche Post AG" will be retained but will refer specifically to a newly established German subsidiary handling domestic mail and parcel services. The overall corporate identity and legal name will be DHL.