Automotives supplier Recaro has signed a partnership agreement with DHL Exel Supply Chain, part of Germany's Deutsche Post World Net group, related to the manufacturing and logistics of car seats.

Under the agreement, Recaro will focus on development, marketing and distribution of premium car seats, while DHL will be responsible for all logistical performances as well as assembly. DHL has for some time provided assembly services for the automotive industry, including the pre-assembly of door side panels for the Audi A4 and A6.

Automotive manufacturers are increasingly faced with shorter model cycles as well as increasingly complex vehicle systems," said Michael Engler, head of the automotive, industry and technology divisions at DHL Exel Supply Chain in Germany. "Therefore, cooperation with premium suppliers is absolutely essential. Logistics providers have an increasing role in the production areas and the automotive value-added chain as a whole. Horst Kespohl, chairman of the executive board of Recaro, said: This combined business approach is a continuation of our efforts to position Recaro as a highly qualified system supplier for the automotive industry. The radical and intelligent restructuring of the value-added chain is a major process innovation that will also benefit our customers in terms of reduced costs.