Interview with: Markus Kanis

Markus Kanis is Europe Logistics COO at DP World, DP a world leader in global supply chain solutions, specialising in cargo logistics, port terminal operations and maritime services.

Tell us a little of yourself and your role

I joined DP World in my current role in January 2023. I bring senior management and leadership experience from Imperial Logistics and Kuehne & Nagel. In all I have spent 30 years in the global logistics and supply chain industry. 

At DP I am responsible for establishing, developing and growing our logistics commercial strategy and capability. This involves a focus on enhancing brand offering and acquiring additional markets, industries and tailored innovative end-to-end supply chain solutions for global customers. 

I am a passionate advocate for providing training, guidance and mentoring, to enhance productivity and develop talent in the workforce.  

How is DP World helping customers build resilience?

Supply chains are unique and complex in nature, making the ‘one size fits all’ approach ineffective. At DP World we have the experience and expertise to understand customer requirements and build customised solutions that can vary across regions, sectors and capabilities. 

In the context of Europe, we’ve deployed a vast network of employees with varied skills and resources to study the market trend and provide a tailored solution to our customers in the region. 

We are investing time and money to deliver creative solutions to the biggest challenges in Europe’s supply chains and beyond. This allows us to end supply chain disruption by reducing friction in every part of the journey to create certainty and security for all. 

Why is Europe the new go-to market for manufacturing and sourcing?

As the world experiences instability due to geopolitical tensions and natural disasters, supply chains are learning how to be agile and resilient. 

Quickly embracing the challenges and finding new ways to make trade flow, supply chain leaders are seeking strategies that will bring goods closer to consumers quickly and efficiently. 

Europe is one of the top five consumer markets for any product or service. Along with a large customer base, the region benefits from a robust infrastructure and transparent regulations, making it the perfect manufacturing and sourcing hub. 

Cited as one of the most open economies in the world, the European Union (EU) ensures an accessible market for investments and reduced tariffs. 

Further, according to Cushman & Wakefield, 9.9mn square feet of industrial space has been acquired or leased in the region in 2022. This is a 29% increase compared to the previous year and strengthens Europe’s position as a manufacturing region.

What is attracting businesses to the EU?

The European Union is the topmost trading partner for 80 countries worldwide. There are some attractive policies and regulations in place to assure the safety and security of consumers. 

The Green Deal Industrial Plan, for one, is creating a pathway for Europe’s net zero industry. As we look to achieve the new International Maritime Organisation (IMO) goal for the shipping industry of net-zero emissions by 2050, this deal will play a huge role in building sustainable operations at the outset. 

Similarly, the Critical Raw Materials Act will help the industry source essential material sustainably, helping the automotive sector reduce its carbon footprint significantly. 

These EU initiatives are helping companies adhere to sustainable procurement, to invest in renewable energy and to implement international labour laws. This is driving a better future for all, putting us on the path to create resilient and sustainable supply chains.