Direct Travel

Deutsche Telekom AG's story begins in the post-war era of Germany, with its roots deeply embedded in the state-owned Deutsche Bundespost, which was established in 1947 as the federal postal and telecommunications service for West Germany. For decades, Deutsche Bundespost held a monopoly over telecommunication services, including telephony and telegraphy. The winds of change began to blow in the late 20th century, leading to significant reforms aimed at liberalizing and modernizing the industry. A pivotal moment arrived in 1989 with 'Postreform I,' which restructured Deutsche Bundespost, separating it into three distinct entities: Deutsche Post for postal services, Deutsche Postbank for financial services, and Deutsche Telekom for telecommunications. This strategic unbundling laid the critical groundwork for a more competitive and dynamic telecommunications landscape in Germany.

The journey towards becoming the global telecommunications giant we know today culminated on January 1, 1995. On this date, through 'Postreform II,' the state-owned Deutsche Bundespost Telekom was officially transformed into Deutsche Telekom AG, a publicly listed stock corporation. This marked a monumental shift from a state-controlled monopoly to a market-driven enterprise. Less than two years later, in November 1996, Deutsche Telekom AG launched its Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, further cementing its transition into the private sector. Since its privatization, Deutsche Telekom has embarked on a path of significant growth and international expansion. What started as a national provider has evolved into one of the world's leading integrated telecommunications companies, with a formidable presence in over 50 countries. The company has consistently adapted to rapid technological advancements, from the boom of GSM mobile communications in the 1990s to the ongoing digital transformation, offering a comprehensive portfolio of fixed-network/broadband, mobile communications, internet, IPTV, and ICT solutions to millions of customers worldwide, navigating an intensely competitive and ever-evolving global market.