Germany, known for its robust economy and innovative industries, is home to some of the world's most influential and successful companies. These titans of German industry have not only shaped their respective sectors but have also left an indelible mark on the global market. From automotive giants to chemical powerhouses, these companies have consistently demonstrated their ability to adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining their position as leaders in their fields. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the details of the top 10 biggest companies in Germany, exploring their market share, profit, revenue, number of employees, leadership, services, products, history, and future growth projections for 2025 and beyond.
Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, is the largest automaker in Germany and one of the most prominent in the world. With a market share of over 20% in Europe, Volkswagen boasts an impressive portfolio of brands, including Volkswagen, Audi, Škoda, SEAT, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, Ducati, and Scania. In 2020, Volkswagen reported a revenue of €222.9 billion and a profit of €9.7 billion, employing over 662,000 people worldwide. Under the leadership of CEO Herbert Diess, Volkswagen has been at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution, investing heavily in the development of its ID. series of electric cars. The company aims to become the world's largest producer of electric vehicles by 2025 and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
2. Daimler AG
Daimler AG, headquartered in Stuttgart, is the parent company of Mercedes-Benz, one of the most prestigious automotive brands in the world. With a strong presence in the luxury car and commercial vehicle markets, Daimler reported a revenue of €154.3 billion and a profit of €4.0 billion in 2020, employing over 293,000 people globally. Under the leadership of CEO Ola Källenius, Daimler has been focusing on the development of electric and autonomous vehicles, as well as on the expansion of its mobility services. The company aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2039 and to become the world's leading provider of sustainable mobility solutions.
3. Siemens AG
Siemens AG, headquartered in Munich, is a global technology powerhouse that operates in the fields of industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare. With a revenue of €57.1 billion and a profit of €4.2 billion in 2020, Siemens employed over 293,000 people worldwide. Under the leadership of CEO Roland Busch, Siemens has been focusing on the development of digital technologies, such as automation, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things. The company aims to become the world's first major industrial company to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
4. BASF SE
BASF SE, headquartered in Ludwigshafen, is the largest chemical company in the world. With a strong presence in the fields of chemicals, materials, industrial solutions, surface technologies, nutrition & care, and agricultural solutions, BASF reported a revenue of €59.1 billion and a profit of €3.6 billion in 2020, employing over 110,000 people globally. Under the leadership of CEO Martin Brudermüller, BASF has been focusing on the development of sustainable solutions, such as biodegradable plastics and renewable energy technologies. The company aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
5. Bayer AG
Bayer AG, headquartered in Leverkusen, is a global life science company that operates in the fields of pharmaceuticals, consumer health, and crop science. With a revenue of €41.4 billion and a profit of €2.8 billion in 2020, Bayer employed over 99,000 people worldwide. Under the leadership of CEO Werner Baumann, Bayer has been focusing on the development of innovative medicines and sustainable agricultural solutions. The company aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 and to become a leader in sustainable agriculture by 2030.
Top 10 German Companies in 2024
6. BMW AG
BMW AG, headquartered in Munich, is one of the most prestigious automotive brands in the world. With a strong presence in the luxury car and motorcycle markets, BMW reported a revenue of €98.9 billion and a profit of €3.9 billion in 2020, employing over 120,000 people globally. Under the leadership of CEO Oliver Zipse, BMW has been focusing on the development of electric and autonomous vehicles, as well as on the expansion of its mobility services. The company aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and to become the world's most sustainable premium car company by 2030.
7. Allianz SE
Allianz SE, headquartered in Munich, is one of the largest financial services companies in the world. With a strong presence in the fields of insurance and asset management, Allianz reported a revenue of €140.5 billion and a profit of €7.2 billion in 2020, employing over 150,000 people worldwide. Under the leadership of CEO Oliver Bäte, Allianz has been focusing on the development of digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, as well as on the expansion of its sustainable investment portfolio. The company aims to achieve carbon neutrality in its investment portfolio by 2050.
Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, headquartered in Ingelheim am Rhein, is a global pharmaceutical company that operates in the fields of human and animal health. With a revenue of €19.6 billion and a profit of €4.5 billion in 2020, Boehringer Ingelheim employed over 51,000 people globally. Under the leadership of CEO Hubertus von Baumbach, Boehringer Ingelheim has been focusing on the development of innovative medicines, such as treatments for respiratory diseases and cancer. The company aims to become a leader in sustainable pharmaceutical development by 2030.
Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, headquartered in Düsseldorf, is a global consumer goods and industrial company that operates in the fields of adhesive technologies, beauty care, and laundry & home care. With a revenue of €19.3 billion and a profit of €2.0 billion in 2020, Henkel employed over 52,000 people worldwide. Under the leadership of CEO Carsten Knobel, Henkel has been focusing on the development of sustainable products, such as biodegradable adhesives and eco-friendly detergents. The company aims to achieve 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by 2025 and to become climate-positive by 2040.
Deutsche Telekom AG, headquartered in Bonn, is one of the largest telecommunications companies in Europe. With a strong presence in the fields of fixed-line and mobile communications, Deutsche Telekom reported a revenue of €101.0 billion and a profit of €4.2 billion in 2020, employing over 226,000 people globally. Under the leadership of CEO Timotheus Höttges, Deutsche Telekom has been focusing on the development of 5G and fiber-optic networks, as well as on the expansion of its digital services. The company aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025 and to become the leading European telecommunications provider by 2024.
These top 10 biggest companies in Germany have not only demonstrated their ability to adapt to changing market conditions but have also shown their commitment to sustainability and innovation. As they continue to grow and evolve, these titans of German industry are poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of their respective sectors and the global economy as a whole.
