DHL to take on Volvo Ocean Race logistics

18 November 2010 | Posted in Sponsorship, Sailing, Volvo Ocean Race | By James Emmett

Global logistics company DHL has signed a deal that will see it become the official logistics partner of the Volvo Ocean Race.

The company will set up a detailed and full logistics plan and will also work with the race teams and partners. Key services will include the port-to-port transport of cargo and sailing equipment by air, sea and land and DHL will be responsible for the complete logistics management from the pick-up of cargo at any given venue to delivery of the containers at the next race village.

In addition to air, ocean and road transport services, DHL will provide full tracking and tracing of the cargo in transit as well as customs clearance and warehousing services.

The 2011-12 edition of the Volvo Ocean Race, which begins in October in Alicante, joins a DHL sports sponsorship portfolio that also includes Formula One and the Rugby World Cup 2011.

“We are extremely pleased to announce DHL as our official logistics partner,” said Volvo Ocean Race chief executive Knut Frostad. “An event such as the Volvo Ocean Race requires its logistics partner to provide a world class service, and we look forward to working with DHL on what truly is a unique sporting and logistical challenge.”

“We look forward to supporting one of the most demanding international sporting events with our know-how in transport and logistics,” said Thomas George, chief executive of DHL Freight.  “It’s a perfect fit. Ocean racing requires core characteristics such as teamwork, passion, speed, technology and a can-do-spirit. These values also boost our performance at DHL,” he added.