Story perspectives
German SMEs Push Fast Transport, Digital, Energy Reforms
5/4/2026
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Story summary
- Leaders of Germany's Mittelstand demand comprehensive reforms that include faster rail, road, digital infrastructure and competitive energy prices.
- Bastian Pophal says over 99% of German firms are SMEs and they provide 50% of net value added.
- Zeiss, Herrenknecht AG and Ottobock exemplify hidden champions that prioritize innovation, reliability and rapid market adaptation, with Ottobock supplying prostheses to nearly all Paralympic athletes.
