The Secrets of German Family Businesses

A unique insight into the secrets of success of German family businesses and the role they play on the global stage At a time of global uncertainty, geopolitical tension and economic upheaval, this book highlights one of Germany’s greatest strengths: its family businesses. As the country’s largest employers, taxpayers and drivers of economic growth, they form the backbone of the German economy. Yet their importance extends far beyond national borders. All over the world, German family businesses are synonymous with lasting quality, technical excellence and entrepreneurial reliability – especially in an era when stability has become crucial to success. Leading scholars and practitioners analyse the success strategies of family businesses at both owner and company level, highlighting the intelligent interplay between tradition and innovation, outlook and origins, lasting values and change. The book also features 50 portraits of German family firms that shed light on the fascinating secrets behind the success of these tradition-steeped brand manufacturers, ‘hidden champions’ and global market leaders. These stories offer a unique insight into the DNA of the companies concerned, showing how entrepreneurial vision and family values go hand in hand, underpinning their pivotal role in economic resilience, stability and future viability worldwide.