“The End of Distance”: Logistics as the Key to New Economic Growth

The event therefore also focused on the role of logistics as a strategic factor in building resilient value chains. In his opening address, HGK-LI CEO Markus Krämer called for closer collaboration between industry and logistics and urged an “end to the distance” between the two sectors. “The current situation shows that we need to strengthen our ties. It is no longer enough simply to be efficient – we must become resilient. To achieve this, we need a new understanding of logistics: as partners on an equal footing. The key lies in acting together.”

In his keynote address, Prof. Dr Torsten Schmidt from the Leibniz Institute for Economic Research highlighted just how tense the economic situation actually is – and where opportunities nevertheless lie. He outlined the economic challenges whilst also identifying starting points for future growth. “We are in a difficult phase, but we can find our way out of it. The prerequisite is that productivity in Germany increases,” explained Professor Schmidt. To achieve this, policymakers must also send the right signals: more investment in infrastructure, less consumption-related spending.

The subsequent panel discussion, moderated by NTV presenter Gesa Eberl, brought together a range of perspectives from the worlds of business, academia and politics. Dr Sebastian C. Schulte (CEO of Deutz AG), Dr Nicole Grünewald (President of the Cologne Chamber of Industry and Commerce), Member of the Bundestag Carl-Phillip Sassenrath (CDU) and Prof. Dr Torsten Schmidt discussed how companies need to change the way they work together in order to become more resilient. Steffen Bauer, CEO of the HGK Group, joined via video link as he was in China at the time with a delegation led by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche. He emphasised the ever-growing importance of logistics for the economy and society: “Logistics is a strategic asset for companies.”   

The key conclusion of the panel: the framework conditions in Germany and the EU must change if Germany is to have a future as a business location. Energy prices are too high and regulation too complex. Economy and ecology must be consistently considered together; sustainability should support processes, not hold them back. Deutz CEO Dr Schulte summed it up aptly, calling for more courage and self-confidence in Germany: “As an athlete, you also take to the starting line to win. We can do so much more!”