In addition, the Contract Logistics division was expanded internationally with new customers and warehouse locations in the USA, Germany, India and Singapore, among others. With turnover of EUR 3.5 billion (2022: EUR 5.0 billion), Hellmann achieved a result above the pre-corona level in the reporting year. The expected decline in revenue is due to the normalization of above-average freight rates during the pandemic. Equity was strengthened by 4.4% to EUR 405 million (2022: EUR 388 million) and the equity ratio increased from 28% to 35%.

Digitalization and expansion of global presence

Hellmann also implemented further strategic measures for sustainable international growth in 2023: In addition to continuing its investment programme in IT infrastructure and digitalization measures, the company further expanded its global presence. Hellmann implemented further elements of its global growth strategy during the reporting year with the establishment of a new national subsidiary in Ireland and other strategic acquisitions, for example in Italy, Slovakia and the Baltic states.

Sector-wide decline in 2023

"The past year was characterized by a massive decline in rates across the industry and also by overcapacity in many product areas. Despite these challenges, we managed to keep our order volume stable and gain market share. This success is a clear sign of our strength and adaptability in a dynamic market environment. What is also decisive for me is that Hellmann is also very solidly positioned in terms of its strategic positioning and that I can hand over the helm to Jens Drewes at the end of the month with great confidence," says Reiner Heiken, Chief Executive Officer, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.

After Jens Drewes has already been able to gain his first impressions of the company since April, he will take over the CEO position from Reiner Heiken, who is retiring, on June 1. "Reiner Heiken has positioned Hellmann very strongly over the past five years and set an important course for the future. I am looking forward to continuing to develop this traditional family business on this solid basis together with our international management team and the entire Hellmann team and to expanding our market position," says Jens Drewes.

"In the 2023 financial year, Hellmann was not only able to gain market share, but also sustainably strengthen its financial power. We are thus creating the framework conditions to continue investing in strategic and technological development. The focus here is on digitalization, promoting innovation, particularly in the area of environmental sustainability, and investing in our more than 12,000 employees worldwide," says Martin Eberle, Chief Financial Officer, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.