DHL confirms wage freeze

Global - DP DHL confirmed a wage freeze across all its business for this year as a result of the economic downturn.

"DP DHL has implemented a wage freeze in 2009, which is applicable globally for all businesses," said Anita Gupta, head of corporate communications & sustainability, Asia Pacific, DP DHL.

Frank Appel, CEO, DP DHL posted on the company's intranet, "With no clear signs of economic recovery in sight, our group will continue to take proactive measures to counter the downturn, focusing on cash management to help us through the tough times ahead. Within this context, I must advise there will be no annual salary increase in 2009."

The wage freeze was effective 1 January 2009, said Gupta.

A DHL spokeswoman said, "The decision not to increase salaries this year is one which has been embraced by the entire board and senior management team at DP DHL, and is considered standard best practice under the circumstances; however, any pre-agreed union or customer arrangements will be honoured."

Industry experts believe other transport operators will soon follow suit.