More security industry, fewer overseas source markets: State sharpens its business attraction strategy – Madsen: “The region remains in demand”

What is particularly encouraging about the business locations initiated in recent months is that many of the planned projects and expansion schemes are in sectors that play a key role in the expert-backed location strategy. Renewable energies, for example, remain a significant locational advantage that opens up huge opportunities. “We want to think less in terms of individual sectors and more in terms of value chains. After all, to become a climate-neutral industrialised nation, we need not only wind turbines, but also companies that develop storage systems or manufacture individual components,” said Madsen.

The so-called ‘key sectors’ have also been revised. In addition to renewable energy, the health and food industries, and information and communication technology – which have already been prioritised – greater focus will now be placed on the security and defence industries. Madsen: “This is not only appropriate given the global political situation, but also offers opportunities for innovation, industrial development and high-quality jobs in the state.”

According to WT.SH director Wielatt, the first successes are already evident: for instance, the Bavarian Eurobotics Group is set to establish a new site in Kiel, initially creating 40 jobs, and will produce state-of-the-art underwater drones in Holtenau. “This move already demonstrates that we are increasingly being perceived as an attractive investment location in this forward-looking sector,” said Wielatt. WT.SH is currently supporting several projects in the security and defence industry.

There are also enquiries regarding sites for data centres, which are increasingly becoming a key part of the digital economy’s infrastructure. Wielatt: “This makes it clear that, when making investment decisions, companies are increasingly looking for locations that combine energy availability and grid connections with growth prospects. It is precisely this development that the updated business attraction strategy addresses.”

According to Madsen and Wielatt, other leading sectors can also continue to make their mark. For instance, VisiConsult X-ray Systems & Solutions, a global market leader in industrial X-ray technology, is investing around 14 million euros in Stockelsdorf near Lübeck. By 2027, more than 2,000 square metres of additional production and workshop space will be created here, along with around 90 new jobs. Madsen: “Investments like this not only create high-quality jobs, but also strengthen our research, technology and innovation landscape.”