logistics arm , DB Schenker , stepped up and experienced higher demand when it came to delivering vital supplies – including Personal Protection Equipment ( PPE ).

“ In the freight and logistics sector , DB Schenker is one of our subsidiaries and , in air freight , there was a huge increase in operations ,” explains Grothe . “ Even with the rail freight at DB Cargo , it was okay , and we did some new things . We set up a rail bridge from Asia to Europe which delivered a lot of essential masks and other PPE . There was a huge demand in Germany for this so we did pivot and freight was not as affected as passenger transport . Rail freight is more or less on the same level as before the Covid crisis .”

One thing is for sure . The economic fallout of the pandemic will put even greater pressure on CPOs to deliver under extreme budget restrictions and pressures as those companies that emerge look to tighten their belts . Does this inevitably mean that there will be pressure on suppliers to cut their prices ? DB already enjoys a strong position when it comes to procurement thanks to its size and standing , so is there a danger that some suppliers simply will not be able to meet expectations in the ‘ new normal ’?

“ Generally speaking , I think there ’ s a huge pressure on productivity on both sides ,” says Grothe . “ So , on us but on the suppliers as well . We have to find solutions and new contracts to ensure we are in a better position , that ’ s for sure .

“ You know , sometimes we have to give something . We have a very stable

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