Daimler Annual Report 2011 - Alle jaarverslagen

1 | To Our Shareholders | Chairman’s Letter
In all of this, one thing remains clear: A company’s success stands or falls with the skills
and commitment of its workforce. The employees of your company are doing a great
job; for that they deserve the thanks of the Board of Management. We will continue to
systematically promote excellence in the future. One specific target is the development
of first-class female and international talent.
Integrity is another issue that is gaining importance – and not just at Daimler. What
does that mean in a corporate context In brief, it means that “make a decent return”
and “make returns decent” are two sides of the same coin. Integrity is more than just
formal compliance with laws and regulations. It is an ethical attitude, a sort of “internal
compass” that keeps us on the right path even in complex business situations.
Many events of the past twelve months have confirmed once again that one of the most
important “currencies” is trust – whether it’s in business or politics, in public or private life.
Ultimately, Daimler owes its sustained success to its trusted relationships with customers,
business partners, employees and neighbors – and of course with you, our shareholders.
We would like to sincerely thank you for your confidence in us. We will make every effort
in 2012 to justify that confidence once again.
Sincerely,
Dieter Zetsche
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