The Major German Brands 2027

driving business by design.

The 2027 edition highlights brands that see design not as an add-on, but as a strategic driver. The Major German Brands showcases the success stories of companies that demonstrate what becomes possible when design propels business models forward.

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Study "Design in Business"

How Design Drives Business Transformation

Our study, “Design in Business,” analyses how companies utilise design to drive innovation, enhance competitiveness, and lead cultural transformation. Evidence that design drives measurable success.

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Mission

Moving Businessby Design

The German Design Council is Germany’s leading authority on design. Since 1953. As a thought leader in the field, we are committed to realising the potential of design for a sustainable future. We connect business with design – for circular design, transformation, and economic success.

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Independent Since 1953

As a non-profit foundation, established by the German Bundestag, we promote design as a cultural and economic factor. Free from individual interests.

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Bridge Between Business & Design

Over 330 member companies benefit from our cross-sector network and from our role as a bridge between industry and the creative economy.

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Shaping Tomorrow by Design

We drive the future of design with circular principles, AI and transformative innovation for a sustainable tomorrow.

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Showcasing Design Excellence

Our awards and support programmes make design excellence visible and offer young talents a platform.

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Upcoming

Event

Circular Design Clinic

24-03-2026
09:00  
Stuttgart
Membes only

Members Talk with denkwerk

Speaker: Susanne Junglas, Experience Design Director at denkwerk
09-04-2026
14:00 - 15:00  
Online
Membes only

Design Insights x Festo at Hannover Messe

21-04-2026
16:30 - 18:00  
Messe Hannover
Awards

Awards Ceremony | German Innovation Award 2026

12-05-2026
17:53  
Consulting Services

Leveraging Design Strategically

Teaser: We support you with strategic consulting, process and design expertise, and a strong partner network. Our goal is to translate design into value creation, innovation and transformation.

Knowledge

The Design Library

Teaser: Our Design Library gives you access to one of the most extensive collections of international design literature – from specialist books and journals to rare historical sources. It supports in-depth research and helps you apply design history to today’s questions.

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Subscribe to the newsletter!

Discover how design strengthens organisations – in our monthly newsletter. We share insights from events, research and our international network, along with updates on key programmes for our foundation members. The newsletter keeps you connected to developments in design, brand strategy and innovation that support clarity, collaboration and long-term economic success.

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