PARTNER STORY

All the partners who support Urawa Reds in various ways.
We will talk about the history of the partners and the Reds behind it, as well as their passion.

DHL is an international air freight forwarding company with a global presence and one of the world's largest market shares. DHL Japan, the Japanese subsidiary of DHL Express, which employs more than 100,000 people in over 220 countries and regions around the world, became a partner of the Reds in 2007.

That year, the Reds won the AFC Champions League (ACL), wearing the red and yellow DHL logo on their chests and becoming the first Japanese club to reach the top of Asia since the tournament's name was changed.

Tony Khan, who became president and CEO of DHL Japan on January 1, 2020, not only supervised and operated the Hong Kong Central Asia Hub (CAH) as general manager until 2019, but also held key positions at DHL Japan, including Executive Vice President and General Manager of Operations, for over 10 years. So he remembers ACL in 2007.

"The game that left the biggest impression on me was the semi-final against Seongnam Ilhwa (now Seongnam FC). We didn't know what would happen until the very end. It went into a penalty shootout, but it was a great Trial in which our players won despite being completely exhausted."

The partnership with DHL Japan, which began during this memorable season for the Reds, is now in its 14th year. DHL is a partner for a variety of events on a global scale, from the pit lane to the pitch, from the catwalk to the concert hall. Why did DHL become a partner with the Reds, and continue this relationship for 14 years?

"I believe that the spirit and philosophy of the Reds are the same as DHL," says President Khan. DHL's business is expressed as "SPEED," "Can-Do," and "PASSION." It has a sense of speed and is passionate. A transportation company and a soccer club. At first glance, they seem to be completely different industries, but there is no difference in the essential attitude between DHL's work and the Reds' battle.

In addition, 'Connecting People, Improving lives.' is also DHL's motto. Connect people and contribute to improving their lives. Khan also said, "Sports bring people together." When you go to watch sports, it doesn't matter what country your neighbor is from, where they come from, whether they're rich or poor. Both the players on the pitch and the fans and supporters will fight together. The idea is also shared with the United Nations program "SPORTS FOR PEACE! Project" in which the Reds participate.

You are a global company, but have there been any changes since becoming a partner with the Reds? When asked about it, President Khan broke his face and replied:

“Since becoming a partner, sales in Saitama have increased dramatically. Even now, there is a sales office that has a 2007 photo displayed at the entrance, and customers say, 'You are a sponsor of the Reds.' Reds. There is a sense of solidarity in DHL. DHL has also become united with its customers, and the image of the company has improved."

Furthermore, it is said that the influence extends not only to the relationship with consumers, but also to the company.

“Our employees also took pride in being partners with the Reds. Our unity and solidarity became stronger. Then there was this. DHL is a sponsor of the Reds.' She's a huge Reds fan, and I've been working with her for a long time.The Reds have the power to connect intentions."

The new coronavirus has affected people all over the world. President Khan is now thinking not only of the customers who use DHL, but also of the fans and supporters of the Reds.

“Even if you can go to the stadium, it will still be restricted. I think the fans and supporters are the most disappointed.・I think our supporters will give us a lot of support, and how we can make our customers happy is something both DHL and the Reds have in common.”

How to make customers happy - DHL did not stop its business even during the corona crisis because of that thought. DHL prides itself on being "more than just a logistics company." We don't just deliver parcels. delivering dreams. The box contains not only objects, but also dreams. Same with the Reds. As long as it is a sport or soccer, there are winners and losers. It is the opponent in front of you that you will fight. However, "There are 11 players on the pitch, but I think they are running with the dream of the millions of fans and supporters behind them," said Khan.

The world has changed due to the influence of the new coronavirus, as it is described as a "new lifestyle." We will probably never fully return to the “pre-Corona” world. It's the same for Reds and DHL. However, President Khan never stopped smiling as he looked to the future.

“I think the Reds have a great never-give-up spirit. This year, more than ever, the dreams of the fans and supporters are coming into play. are always with REDS!”

Even in difficult situations, if everyone works together to overcome them, a good future will surely come. President Khan believes that, DHL Japan and the Reds will continue to work together and move toward a bright future.