The German State of Hessen, approximately half the size of Switzerland, has always been an investment giant, attracting high-quality and high-value inward investment thanks to its compelling mix of pro-business policies, political and economic stability, and a strong research and development base. Possessing an 18.4 % share of all foreign direct investment in Germany, Hessen would theoretically occupy 25th place in the world if it was to be considered an independent country, providing a good measure of foreign investors’ appetite for the region. As a business location, Hessen offers a transparent legal system, low taxes, creative excellence, and access to a well-organised and highly-educated workforce.

Cologne ranks first in the competition between geographic locations and recommends itself as top spot for foreign investors.

The city offers excellent customer proximity: in a radius of only 100 kilometres around Cologne 17 million prospective clients can be reached, and in only 250 kilometres there are 45 million. This number is not to be surpassed by any other city in mainland Europe. Cologne's advanced infrastructure offers investors maximum mobility and flexibility.

Many people consider Hamburg the world's most beautiful metropolis – a pearl among the cities of the world. Extensive areas of water and parkland offer limitless leisure possibilities. Traditional Hanseatic open-mindedness and the city's maritime atmosphere combine to make living here especially agreeable – and with the additional bonus of safety. As Germany's second largest city with almost 4.3 million people enclosed Hamburg the metropolitan region, and a hub for international trade, Hamburg can boast considerable economic stature.

Germany – Europe’s leading economic nation – remains one of the most important markets for sales and investment. Around 80 million consumers live here, with a combined purchasing power of 1,373.7 billion euros. Germany accounts for 20 percent of Europe’s total economic output – more than any other European country and more than the total GDP of all the eastern European countries put together. In recent years Germany has been the driving force behind European growth. Such a market environment offers interesting investment opportunities. The state of North Rhine-Westphalia provides a good platform for unlocking this potential.

One of the oldest states in Europe, and sitting right at the heart of the European Union, Bavaria has a population of 12.5 million people and is the largest of Germany’s sixteen states.

Home to some of the most recognisable brands in the world, such as BMW, Siemens and Adidas, and destination point for yearly mainstays such as the Oktoberfest, the Opera Festival and the English Garden, Bavaria has long been characterised by its unspoilt natural beauty, strong work ethic and cultural traditions, but carries off the rare ability of being a location that is able to sit as comfortably on the investor’s map as it can on the tourist’s agenda.