06.10.2009 Berlin - The American Chamber of Commerce in Germany, AmCham Germany, underscores its confidence in Germany as a business location. Last Thursday, the Chamber introduced the most successful American companies and subsidiaries of American companies located in Germany. At the same time, AmCham published its “Ten Point Program for Success” for the future development of Europe’s largest economy.

In 2008, the top-ranking companies in terms of revenue were Ford, ExxonMobil, Opel and ConocoPhilips. With revenues of EUR 19.7 billion, Ford once again came in first, followed by ExxonMobil Central Europe Holding GmbH („Esso“) with revenues of EUR 15.2 billion. Opel and ConocoPhilips each came in at EUR 13 billion to share the third spot.

American companies in Germany have not been spared from the economic crisis. In comparison to the previous year, the total revenue of the 50 leading companies declined by 5.8 percent from EUR 172 billion in 2007 to EUR 162 billion in 2008. Despite the global downturn, however, there has been a wave of new US companies established in Germany. 250 new companies with a majority share held by American firms were founded between January 2008 and June 2009. Most of these companies operate in the areas of consumer goods or related fields. Focal points lie in future industries such as ICT, medicine, renewable energies, financial services, and real estate.

“Deutschland 2020”

AmCham outlined its expectations for the future development of Germany as a business location in a “Ten-Point Program for Success”. The Chamber sees Germany as a business hub in Europe and therefore as the first stop for investors looking to expand or establish branches in Europe. As a global leader in education and research, Germany offers attractive jobs for top international decision makers. According to AmCham in its paper “Deutschland 2020”, Germany will be the first “Green Economy” worldwide, establishing a successful symbiosis of ecology and economy. Products “made in Germany” not only stand for the highest quality and precision, but increasingly for innovation and progress. Germany will continue to enjoy its reputation as the world’s most important exporter while simultaneously leading the use of eco-friendly technologies.

A survey of the 50 most important US companies in Germany showed that growth-oriented tax and business policies continue to be awarded highest priority. Policies in the areas of education, research, and technology can be seen as driving forces of innovation. Providing opportunities for qualified personnel and overcoming existing obstacles in the labor market are therefore crucial aspects.

Dr. Jürgen Friedrich, Chief Executive of Germany Trade & Invest, welcomed the recommendations of the Chamber: “American companies are well acquainted with Germany’s business environment – the USA is the most important foreign investor in Germany. The picture that ‘Deutschland 2020‘ paints should be taken seriously. It is encouraging to hear that Germany plays such a central role as a location for sustainable investment and innovation.”

With a total of 3,000 American companies, a corresponding investment volume of approximately EUR 130 billion, and over 800,000 jobs, Germany has the highest concentration of American investment in Europe.

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