The integration of DB Schenker, following its acquisition by DSV, is being closely watched, with Naz Yusoff, DSV’s Regional Lead for Fairs & Events (APAC), playing a pivotal role. The merger has resulted in one of the largest logistics networks globally, amidst challenges like geopolitical instability, changing trade routes, and the increasing need for supply chain resilience. In a conversation with The Economic Times Digital, Yusoff outlined the strategic vision for the integration, its impact on clients and employees, the increasing significance of India in global supply chains, the outlook for exhibition and event logistics, and how the merged entity is preparing for the next stage of global trade growth. Edited excerpts.
The Economic Times (ET): The acquisition of DB Schenker by DSV is being called a transformative moment. What is the long-term vision for the combined entity, and how do you see it reshaping global logistics over the next decade?
Naz Yusoff (NY): The acquisition is fundamentally about creating a global logistics platform. As our leadership has highlighted, the combined organisation now benefits from significantly broader network reach and greater operational flexibility, which enables us to support customers more effectively across markets.
Looking ahead, I believe the demand for global logistics solutions will continue to grow, driven by the need for greater supply chain resilience. Areas such as digitalisation and sustainability will become increasingly important, and the combined entity is now much better positioned to deliver efficient, future-ready solutions for customers worldwide.
In the fairs and events business, we work closely with exhibition organisers and venues, many of whom have longstanding relationships with both DSV and Schenker. Naturally, they would seek clarity on what would change in terms of processes and service delivery. I am pleased to say that the integration has progressed smoothly, and our customers remain confident because they know they continue to be our top priority.
At the same time, we are focused on capturing operational synergies, strengthening our digital capabilities to drive efficiency. Another key priority is aligning processes across the organisation so that we operate as one unified global company.
ET: Integration often leads to overlaps and restructuring. How do you balance efficiency-driven synergies with employee morale and talent retention during such a large-scale transition?
NY: While operational efficiency is important, retaining and engaging talent is equally critical. During periods of transformation, transparency and open communication play a vital role in helping employees feel valued and engaged throughout the process.
People are at the heart of what we do and how we succeed, and our approach has always been centred on open dialogue and creating opportunities for employees to grow and develop. Just as it is important to preserve customer confidence, it is equally important to maintain employee confidence, as this ultimately contributes to stronger long-term outcomes for the business.
ET: The merger creates one of the largest logistics players globally. What new opportunities does this unlock in terms of cross-selling, vertical specialisations, and end-to-end supply chain solutions?
NY: The scale of the combined platform is significant and allows us to offer far more integrated supply chain solutions than before.
As we move forward, our customers and partners will benefit from a broader range of capabilities and deeper expertise. The merger strengthens our business model by bringing together expertise across multiple verticals, which includes fairs and events.
This expanded capability goes beyond transportation and warehousing, allowing us to provide truly end-to-end supply chain solutions that create greater value for our customers.
ET: India is becoming a critical node in global supply chains. How is the combined DSV x Schenker entity recalibrating its India strategy?
NY: India has become an increasingly important market within the Asia-Pacific region, driven by strong manufacturing growth, infrastructure development, and expanding supply chain capabilities.
The combined organisation sees significant long-term potential in India. With our expanded network and enhanced regional capabilities, we are well positioned to support both multinational corporations and local Indian businesses.
The integration of Schenker has significantly strengthened our presence across APAC, and this has opened doors and created more opportunities for DSV globally.
ET: With ongoing geopolitical tensions, trade realignments, and supply chain diversification, how do you see global logistics evolving, and how is DSV positioning itself to remain resilient and agile?
NY: This is certainly one of the more complex challenges facing the fairs and events industry today. However, the integration of DSV and Schenker has created a more diversified organisation, enabling us to focus on flexibility, visibility, and cost efficiency across our operations.
Our role has always been to help customers navigate uncertainty and adapt to changing circumstances. We support them in building more resilient supply chains and overcoming operational challenges.
Resilience is not only about infrastructure and networks. Leadership, organisational culture, and people are equally important factors in ensuring robust and agile operations, particularly during periods of uncertainty.
ET: Fairs, events, and exhibition logistics are highly time-sensitive and complex. How will the expanded network and capabilities post-acquisition enhance service delivery in this niche but high-value segment?
NY: One of the key challenges we currently face is volatility in freight pricing and uncertainty around freight schedules. Having access to a larger global network gives us greater flexibility to respond to such disruptions.
For example, if a shipment destined for an exhibition is affected by a port closure, we can leverage our global network to identify alternative routes and solutions. The scale of our network ensures that we can continue to provide reliable options to customers despite external challenges.
Following the acquisition, our global footprint has become a significant advantage. We now have experienced professionals globally who understand local customs regulations and can facilitate timely clearance.
ET: Asia continues to be the growth engine of global trade. What role will Asia, and specifically intra-Asia trade corridors, play in DSV’s future growth strategy?
NY: We view Asia as a major growth driver for logistics and supply chain services. Intra-Asia trade corridors are becoming increasingly important as regional economies continues to expand.
The combined DSV x Schenker organisation is well positioned to capture these opportunities through our extensive regional network.
At the same time, geopolitical developments, including those in the Middle East, continue to influence trade flows and supply chain strategies.
Source Name : Economic Times