Today we interview Miguel Borrás, Managing Director DHL Express Spain
1.- DHL Group is the world’s largest logistics operator, with a presence in more than 220 countries and territories and approximately 584,000 employees. Within this group, DHL Express operates the international express delivery network. What role does the Spanish operation play in this global landscape, and what makes Spain a strategic market for the group?
Spain holds a very relevant position within our network in terms of volume, reach and connectivity. Globally, DHL Group operates in more than 220 countries and territories, has around 584,000 employees and generated revenues of €82.8 billion in 2025. Within this framework, the Spanish operation stands out for its specialization in international transport, with 42 of our own daily flights, 3 international hubs, 6 gateways, more than 1,700 service points and over 2,300 employees, as well as cumulative infrastructure investment exceeding €231 million between 2017 and 2025.
Spain is strategic because it combines a highly dynamic export base with a geographical position that enables efficient connections between Europe, America and North Africa.
2.- DHL Express’ international hub at Barajas Airport is one of the company’s largest worldwide. Could you explain its importance within your network and the type of operations carried out there?
The DHL Express hub located at Madrid-Barajas is a critical infrastructure within our network because it acts as a connection point between DHL Express flights in Europe and long-haul routes, particularly those linking with Latin America.
Operational since 2018, the DHL Express hub has 32,000 square metres and 176 loading docks. In practice, it concentrates sorting operations, air connections, export and import management, and customs processing, all with high levels of efficiency: 96% on-time transit performance, 97% of deliveries completed before noon, and 80% of shipments cleared before arrival.
3.- What role does a hub of this scale play in the economic fabric of a region? To what extent does the logistics connectivity it provides act as a factor in attracting other companies?
A hub of this size does not simply move goods: it drives competitiveness, investment and quality employment.
In the Madrid Region, the impact of our activity is very tangible, because 20% of DHL Express Spain’s customers are Madrid-based companies, and in the region we operate 200 pickup and delivery routes, 30,000 daily shipments and 173 delivery and collection points.
This level of coverage, combined with our direct connection to key markets, makes logistics a true accelerator for other companies, especially SMEs that need to internationalise with reliable delivery times and global coverage.
Furthermore, the Madrid Region itself recognises logistics as a key driving sector, with 23 logistics parks, around 206,000 jobs and accounting for 11% of regional GDP. It is much more than a hub: it is the essential link that channels international freight flows across our network.
4.- Why did you choose Madrid? What distinctive factors does the region have compared with others in Europe?
Madrid brings together several distinctive advantages: air connectivity, a central location on the Iberian and European map, critical business mass and a highly consolidated logistics ecosystem.
For DHL Express, Madrid is an ideal platform. Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport handles 55% of Spain’s air freight, the region has a powerful road and rail network, and there is significant business demand, with a strong presence of sectors such as engineering and manufacturing, as well as fashion and retail.
Added to this is the fact that Madrid is a natural gateway to America, especially Latin America, where we have one of our strongest connections.
5.- An operation of this scale requires coordination with multiple public authorities. How do you assess your relationship with Madrid’s institutions?
We value it very positively. In recent years, we have built a stable, technical and constructive dialogue with the Madrid Region, which has resulted in concrete agreements and effective collaboration.
This institutional relationship allows us to align investment, talent, sustainability and economic development with the region’s shared priorities.
In a complex operation like ours, this coordination is essential to move forward with agility and a long-term vision.
6.- DHL Express has invested more than €100 million in Madrid in recent years. Beyond the hub, what other past investments do you consider relevant, and what new commitments are you planning in the short and medium term?
Beyond the hub, investments in operational reach, sustainability and technological modernisation are particularly relevant.
In the Madrid Region, we have around 180 service points, more than 140 vehicles, several of them electric and equipped with smart charging systems.
In the short and medium term, we continue to focus on three key areas: fleet electrification, digitalisation and process automation, and the deployment of more sustainable infrastructure.
This roadmap is aligned with our emissions reduction targets and our commitment to making the entire value chain more efficient.
7.- More than half of your workforce in Spain works in the Madrid Region. What types of profiles are you looking for? Is the region a good place to access talent in the logistics sector?
Indeed, Madrid is a very favourable environment for attracting and developing logistics talent.
A company like ours requires operational, technical and management profiles, as well as professionals linked to new technologies, digitalisation, automation, sustainability, customer service and customs expertise.
Our commitment to the region is to promote training, develop the best talent and support employment opportunities, and this remains the foundation of our people strategy.
Madrid offers business density, a strong educational ecosystem and a professional culture that is highly compatible with the demands of a 24/7 international operation.
8.- In 2024, DHL Express and the Madrid Region signed an agreement to contribute to the region’s economic, logistics and social development. Two years later, what concrete results would you highlight? What new areas of collaboration are you considering?
Since the agreement was signed in 2024, we have strengthened areas that were already strategic for us: professional training, the promotion of the logistics industry, employment, volunteering, social impact projects and collaboration with local organisations, together with new investments in sustainability and innovation.
Looking ahead, we want to continue deepening our work in areas related to innovation, sustainability, training and strengthening Madrid’s international connectivity as a major logistics platform between Europe and America.
9.- Finally, if you had to send a message to other international companies considering investing or expanding in the Madrid Region, what would it be?
The message would be clear: Madrid is not just a market; it is a growth platform.
It offers connectivity, infrastructure, talent, business scale and an administration with the ability to engage with companies and a clear economic vision.
For an international company, establishing or expanding operations in Madrid means gaining access to an ecosystem that facilitates internationalisation and enables efficient operations across Europe, America and other strategic markets.
Our experience in the region confirms that Madrid has the conditions needed to grow with strength and over the long term.