Industry Overview

The German retail and wholesale industries link manufacturers to customers. In total, it accounts for more than 450,000 companies that employ about 5 million people. The sector realizes an annual turnover of more than 1 trillion €.

Inasmuch as Germany is one of the top exporting nations, its economic success also depends on imports to a large degree. Wholesalers, international trading companies and commercial agents support foreign importers with their broad knowledge of the German and European markets.

German retailers know the preferences of local consumers very well and help to supply Europe's largest consumer market of 82 million potential customers with the products it requires. Their modern retail structures and innovative sales services support suppliers in meeting the consumers' demand.