Deutsche Post World Net has teamed up with IBM, Intel, Philips and SAP to launch a strategicpartnership called “DHL Innovation Initiative”. The companies plan to advance the development and
introduction of new technologies for the logistics industry.The initiative is aimed at making supply chains more efficient by uniting the flow ofinformation and physical goods through increased automation, visibility and improved collaborationamong trading partners. To achieve this, the partners have decided to pool their logistics,technology and IT expertise. DHL contributes its global express and logistics network to thepartnership, SAP and IBM will contribute their IT software and system expertise, while Philips isthe leading provider of RFID chip technology.
In initial projects, industry-specific RFID applications will be tested in the supply chains ofthe partner companies and brought to market. Pilot projects have been started in the fashion,pharmaceutical and electronic industries in Europe, the United States and Asia. First results areexpected as early as mid-2006.
“We want to make a joint effort to develop solutions that haven’t yet entered our customers’minds,” said John Allan, Board member at Deutsche Post World Net in charge of Logistics. “Steadilyrising merchandise flows are posing new challenges for the supply chain, and these challenges canbe mastered only by using innovative business models, innovative business processes and innovativetechnology”, added Martin Jetter, Leader IBM Business Consulting Services Northeast Europe.
“To ensure the success of this initiative, it is imperative that these new technologies arebased on proven, integrated business solutions that support the industry’s needs, while at the sametime driving down the total cost of ownership,” commented Claus Heinrich, member of the ExecutiveBoard, SAP AG. “We can help make supply chains more efficient and transparent. As the leader inRFID technology, Philips is delighted to work together with Deutsche Post, IBM, Intel and SAP torealize RFID-based logistics solutions,” stated Frans van Houten, CEO, Philips Semiconductors.
