DHL Express International (Thailand)

DHL Express International (Thailand) Ltd, established in Bangkok in 1973, operates as part of the Deutsche Post DHL Group, the world’s leading postal and logistics company. The company takes an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR) through its ‘Living Responsibility’ strategy, which integrates community engagement into its core business operations.

This strategy is implemented through three key CSR programs: GoTeach (focused on education and employability), GoGreen (dedicated to environmental sustainability), and GoHelp (supporting disaster management efforts). By embedding these initiatives into its corporate culture, DHL Express Thailand actively involves employees in making a meaningful impact.

‍Employee Engagement and Volunteerism

DHL Express Thailand fosters a culture of volunteerism by encouraging employees to participate in community-driven initiatives. In addition to monetary contributions, employees organize annual fundraising events such as T-shirt sales, performances, and second-hand item sales to support ‘Living Responsibility’ efforts. This hands-on approach ensures that CSR extends beyond corporate programs, becoming a part of employees’ personal commitment to social good.

Ton Kia: Nurturing Growth Through CSR

In 2014, DHL Express Thailand launched the ‘Ton Kia’ (Young Plant) programme, reinforcing the company’s three CSR pillars. The program started with Ton Kia Camp, a three-day career-oriented training workshop for over 20 students from SOS Children’s Villages Thailand. The sessions included aptitude and personality tests, English language assessments, and expert-led lectures designed to enhance job interview skills and career development.

As part of its commitment to education, the company also donated books and a bookshelf to SOS Children’s Village Chiang Rai to help restore a library damaged by a 6.3-magnitude earthquake. Additionally, DHL partnered with the Sirikorn Chiang Rai Rescue Association to conduct a first-aid training session for youth and staff members of the village.

GoGreen: Environmental Sustainability Initiatives

DHL Express Thailand actively contributes to Thailand’s national reforestation efforts. On World Environment Day, the company collaborated with Thailand’s National Environment Fund and the Royal Forestry Department to distribute plant seeds to employees, encouraging them to nurture young trees at home or at company facilities. After three months, these trees were planted in a 30,400 sqm reforestation project in Phetchaburi, aligning with the government’s goal of increasing Thailand’s forest area from 32% to 40% (400 million sqm) by 2025.

Globally, Deutsche Post DHL Group set a target to improve carbon dioxide efficiency, including that of its subcontractors, by 30% by 2020 compared to 2007 levels. By 2013, DHL Express Thailand had already exceeded this target, achieving a 36.2% improvement in carbon-dioxide efficiency. The group as a whole improved by 23% during the same period, showcasing the company’s strong commitment to sustainability.

Measuring Impact and Success

DHL Express Thailand evaluates its CSR efforts through multiple metrics. The primary measurement focuses on employee engagement, tracking the number of employees participating in CSR activities and the hours they dedicate. The secondary measurement is derived from Employee Engagement and Corporate Responsibility scores in the annual Employee Opinion Survey. Additionally, the company assesses the long-term impact on society, such as tracking improvements in students’ performance following their participation in Ton Kia Camp.

Through its Living Responsibility framework, DHL Express Thailand demonstrates how businesses can integrate CSR into their operations, driving both social progress and environmental sustainability. By engaging employees and aligning with national development goals, the company continues to make a lasting impact in Thailand and beyond.