DHL 2011 Annual Report Download - page 110

In recent years, the Group has taken measures to achieve a high level of cost  ex-
ibility. Even though experts see a substantial risk of an economic downturn in , we
regard the likelihood of this signi cantly a ecting our forecast earnings as low due to
our sound preparations, the experience we gathered during the last economic crisis and
our global presence.
 e probability of customer insolvencies is at a normal low level, for which reason
we do not anticipate any signi cant losses due to insolvency on the part of customers
from a current perspective.
Key factors for success in the mail and logistics business are quality, customers’
con dence in their business partners and competitive prices. Due to our high quality
and the savings generated in recent years, we consider ourselves in a position to keep
any potential risk to our projected earnings from competition at a fairly low level. Our
various Group initiatives also play a key role in securing our strong competitive position.
Security risks
According to security agencies, terrorism presents a particularly high risk for the
western world. However, no speci c threats to people, institutions or enterprises are
known to us at present. We nonetheless share the assessment of the authorities and take
the heightened security risk seriously. For this reason, we analyse global threat levels on
an ongoing basis and conduct regular reviews of our security concepts, adapting them
where necessary.
A er package bombs were posted from Yemen and Greece in , postal com-
panies and government authorities all over the world agreed to increase air tra c
security. Deutsche Post DHL’s security concepts ful l the statutory requirements, as
con rmed by numerous reviews by the authorities. Moreover, we shall continue to work
together with all relevant security agencies, air tra c authorities, representatives of
national legislative authorities and industry associations in order to ensure a high level
of security and a low probability of any signi cant incidents occurring. Not only shall
we comply in full with all security guidelines and regulations enacted globally or by
individual countries or authorities, we shall also add our own high standards to them.
We intend to make a contribution to further improving all aspects of security in the
interest of our customers, business partners and employees.
Risks arising from corporate strategy
Over the past years, the Group has ensured that its activities are well positioned in
the world’s fastest growing regions and markets. We have also created e cient structures
in all areas to allow us to  exibly adapt our capacities and costs to demand as a pre-
requisite for lasting, pro table business success. With respect to the strategic orientation
of the Group, we are now focusing on our core competencies in the mail and logistics
businesses with an eye towards growing organically and simplifying our processes for
the bene t of customers.
Deutsche Post DHL Annual Report 
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