The international transport and logistics juggernaut, Gebrüder Weiss, navigated through the complexities of the global market in 2023, finishing the fiscal year with a net revenue of 2.47 billion euros. While this marks a decline from the previous year’s 3 billion euros, the company remains on a trajectory above its growth trend observed between 2015 and 2020.
In the Air & Sea business area, net revenue rebounded to 774 million euros, aligning with previous years, following the coronavirus-related challenges of the preceding two years. Higher freight rates charged by shipping lines and airlines contributed to Gebrüder Weiss generating 1.27 billion euros in this segment. The Land Transport and Logistics business areas also exhibited stability, with revenue holding at 1.45 billion euros, aided by declining energy and fuel prices.
Despite the general economic challenges, Gebrüder Weiss demonstrated resilience, aiding customers in global sales markets and expanding its footprint with new locations in the USA and Germany. CEO Wolfram Senger-Weiss attributes this success to the unwavering dedication of their employees, emphasizing the negative impact of geopolitical conflicts and weaker global economic output on revenue and transport volumes.
Gebrüder Weiss displayed financial strength by achieving an equity ratio of 63 percent (up from 60 percent in 2022), positioning itself as a robust employer capable of weathering crises.
Record Investments and Network Expansion
In a bold move, Gebrüder Weiss invested a record-breaking 187 million euros, marking the largest investment volume in the company’s history. This substantial investment fueled network expansion in the German and US markets, as well as South-Eastern Europe. Acquisitions, real estate purchases, and the construction of a new freight forwarding terminal underscored the company’s commitment to growth.
Digitalization of supply chain management also took center stage, with the integration of warehouse analysis functions into the myGW customer portal. This web-based platform enhances transparency across the supply chain, providing real-time tracking and estimated times of arrival.
Progress in Sustainability
Gebrüder Weiss continued its commitment to sustainability, with 75 percent of its electricity requirements in the DACH region being met by solar power. In 2023, nine additional photovoltaic systems were commissioned, contributing to a total of 27 systems generating 5,850 megawatt hours of electricity. This initiative resulted in a noteworthy reduction of 2,750 tons of CO2 emissions.
The company’s focus on achieving climate neutrality by 2030 extended to its vehicle fleet. Gebrüder Weiss is incorporating electric vehicles, including e-vans for online deliveries and battery-powered trucks set to launch in Germany. As part of the transition to e-mobility, a significant portion of the truck fleet in Austria is being converted to hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO).
Outlook and Strategy
Looking ahead, Gebrüder Weiss anticipates a slight economic upturn in the second half of 2024. CEO Senger-Weiss emphasized the company’s global position, enabling swift responses to regional economic shifts. The strategy of investing in both the operational network and digital expertise has proven vital, reinforcing their resilience in the face of global economic fluctuations.
