DHL has announced an investment of over HK$100 million (US$13 million) in Hong Kong involving a new 120,000 sq ft DHL Global Forwarding (DGF) office in Kowloon Commerce Centre (KCC) and a DHL Fashion Competency Centre, also based in KCC.

Kelvin Leung, CEO, North Asia Pacifi c, DHL Global Forwarding, said the new DGF offi ce in KCC would function as the company’s north Asia Pacific regional offi ce, drawing together 800 employees under one roof.

“The new office is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and sustainable features,” he stated. “This is a reason for our selection of the KCC as it is in line with our strategy to reduce our carbon footprint.”

The fashion facility, on the other hand, will feature a core team of industry experts who will provide consultancy services and develop customised logistics products/solutions for customers in north Asia Pacific.

“The fashion and apparel industry is Hong Kong’s second-largest export commodity, worth over US$26 billion, after electronic products,” said Hermann Ude, Global CEO, DHL Global Forwarding.

“The sector comprised 11 per cent of total exports in Hong Kong in 2008 and experienced double-digit growth in exports to many European countries. We see tremendous opportunity in the coming years. Despite the economic slowdown, speed to market remains crucial for business to stay competitive.”