Challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic
When looking ahead to 2020, Heiner Matthias Honold emphasized the rapid response to market shifts caused by the coronavirus crisis: "Our sales fell by 11% in the first five months. As a result, we have systematically reduced business areas that were jeopardized by coronavirus and appear risky in the future." Among other things, the Honold Logistik Group divested itself of the tourism division, but was able to find a buyer who took over the team as a whole. The temporary staffing division was also reduced. The Group is preparing for declines in the tire, metal and aviation logistics business areas. However, a percentage-relevant short-time working scheme beyond 2020 is only planned at four locations with a focus on aviation logistics.

On the other hand, Honold expects growing sales in the pharmaceutical and consumer logistics sectors. In addition, another business area has developed above plan following expansion investments in 2019 and also proved dynamic in 2020, generating significant new business. "For the remainder of 2020, we anticipate a decline in turnover in a corridor between 9% and 13% and a fall in profit of up to 5%," predicted Heiner Matthias Honold. "Measured against current events, this forecast is within an acceptable range."

The growth strategy in the logistics real estate sector, which Heiner Matthias Honold described as very successful, has been intensified over the past few years and remains unaffected by the coronavirus crisis. As a first step, Honold is leasing a 20,000 sqm logistics hall to the Husqvarna Group as of the 4th quarter of 2020. At the same time, those responsible are continuing to dynamically develop the business segment. Specifically, a new anchor customer is being sought for a large new-build property with up to 40,000 sqm.

At the start of training in 2020, the Group employed a total of 48 young people who are training for their future careers. The number of trainees and DHBW students thus remains almost constant, as does the portfolio of training professions and degree courses. "We like to fill management positions with colleagues from our own ranks," emphasized Honold.