Blue Dart inks pact with DHL

Hindustan Times: New Delhi

Friday, 13th September 2002

International air express service provider DHL Worldwide and domestic express company Blue Dart have entered into a sales alliance. Under this agreement, the two companies will leverage each other's strengths to give clients greater reach.

While DHL, with revenues of 6.3 billion euros, holds 60 per cent market share globally, Blue Dart holds 38 per cent of the express services market in India.

The alliance, for a period of five years from October 1, was signed after Blue Dart parted ways with FedEx.

In order to service the clientele routed through Blue Dart, DHL will invest heavily in airport and ground handling facilities in the four metros. According to DHL Worldwide Express, Area Director - South East Asia, Bryan Jamison, "While the infrastructure in Delhi will be up and running by the fourth quarter of this calendar year, the other three will be functional by the first quarter of next year. The investment blueprint will be in place in the next three months."

According to Blue Dart Managing Director, Clyde Cooper, " Nearly one-third of our 30,000 domestic clients are looking for international services. This alliance will enable us to service them according to global standards."