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Interview with Erich Staake – head of Duisport for 21 years.
Erich Staake has developed the German facility in Duisport into the largest inland port in Europe in two decades. Duisport is now only still a port in a small way; it’s simultaneously home to numerous large companies and is also a laboratory for start-ups. So Staake isn’t too worried to be facing a bit of a downturn; he’s confident rather than pessimistic.
You’re set to be admitted to Germany’s Logistics Hall of Fame, Mr Staake. What does this honour mean to you?
When I look at the list of names that have been inducted so far, then this feels like a great honour. The hall has honoured greats such as Michael Kühne and Gottlieb Daimler. Many are awarded an accolade or the other, but becoming a member of the Logistics Hall of Fame – now that’s something rather special in my book.
Duisport recorded a slight decline in the volumes it handled in the first half of the year. What’s the situation right now?
This slight decline, which was to be expected somewhat, I have to admit, will probably remain a fact through to the end of this year. We’ve grown strongly in the past, but we’re still undergoing ongoing structural change here in Duisburg.
Now we’re worried about the steel industry, because the steel sector is doing badly globally. The automotive sector has developed very well of late, but we’re nevertheless feeling the effects of lower volumes in this segment. The chemical industry, which is strong in Duisburg and is largely a supplier to the automotive industry, is also affected by this trend. All this is a bit of a challenge – we can’t escape reality. Read more
Source: ITJ
