The German food sector

5.4 million employees, 658,000 businesses, 170,000 products.

The German food sector – that is almost 5.4 million people working in the related industries from farm to fork. The sector employs 12 percent of the working population in Germany, and it is a symbol for prosperity, growth and employment. The German food sector ensures the daily supply of safe, high-quality food, produced to the highest standards from raw material through the processing and production stages to packaging.

In addition to operating economically, corporate social responsibility and sustainability are essential parts of the self-image of the 658,000 businesses active in the sector. The entrepreneurs bear responsibility for their employees as well as for food safety, and often stand for their commitment with their family names and long company traditions.

Due to high product safety, quality and supply reliability, there is also high and growing demand for food "made in Germany” in international markets. The export business with its volume of more than 74 billion Euros is not only an important driver of growth and a guarantee of secure jobs, but also a strategic factor for the future of the sector.

The German food sector in numbers (infographic)