Global logistics leader DHL Group has achieved the highest "comprehensive" rating for corporate citizenship, becoming one of only three German DAX-40 companies to receive this distinction. The recognition from consultancy Wider Sense validates DHL's long-term commitment to sustainability and its successful integration of social responsibility into core business operations.
The evaluation, part of Wider Sense's study "Corporate Citizenship: From Philanthropic Outsider to Sustainable Enterprise Competence Center," thoroughly assessed DAX companies across multiple dimensions including scope, sustainability, credibility, and impact. Notably, DHL had previously received the second-highest "strategic" rating in 2017 and 2021, making its 2024 elevation to the top tier particularly significant.
"DHL integrates corporate citizenship into its core business, creating tangible win-win situations for both society and the company," the Wider Sense report stated, highlighting DHL's strategy of aligning business value with social value.
Four Pillars of Social Impact
DHL operationalizes its corporate citizenship through four flagship programs that demonstrate the company's comprehensive approach to social responsibility:
GoHelp: Delivering Hope in Crisis
For over two decades, DHL's disaster response teams have partnered with the UN and NGOs to provide rapid emergency logistics. Employee volunteers leverage their logistics expertise to establish efficient supply chains in disaster zones, while preparedness programs strengthen community resilience through training and resource allocation.
GoTeach: Bridging Education to Employment
Operating in 70+ countries with partners like SOS Children's Villages, GoTeach facilitates school-to-work transitions through vocational training, internships, and career mentoring. The program addresses youth unemployment by equipping young people with market-relevant skills.
GoTrade: Empowering Global Commerce
By reducing trade barriers and simplifying processes, GoTrade enables SMEs in developing markets to access global opportunities. The program provides logistics solutions, trade advisory services, and market intelligence to stimulate local economic growth.
GoGreen: Pioneering Sustainable Logistics
Central to DHL's 2050 zero-emission goal, GoGreen implements eco-friendly transport technologies, optimized networks, energy efficiency measures, and sustainable packaging solutions. The initiative engages employees as environmental ambassadors through its GoGreen specialist program.
DHL dedicates 1% of annual net profits to these social impact initiatives, demonstrating financial commitment to its citizenship mission. Christoph Selig, VP of Sustainability Communications at DHL, emphasized: "This top rating confirms our long-term commitment to developing effective solutions for social challenges alongside our partners, and recognizes our employees who voluntarily engage in diverse social causes."
The recognition serves as a benchmark for corporate responsibility, illustrating how businesses can create both economic and social value through integrated sustainability strategies.