BERLIN (dpa-AFX): More than 100 founders and executives are demanding a renewal of Germany as a business location just ahead of the federal government's planned reform package. In an appeal issued by the Startup Association, the group insists that the next meeting of the coalition committee on July 1 must focus on tangible reform approaches rather than mere declarations of intent. "The loss of 10,000 industrial jobs per month last year is both a wake-up call and a mandate for real reform," warned Chairwoman Verena Pausder.

The appeal, which was first reported by the "Bild" newspaper, was signed by prominent figures in the startup industry, including Zalando Co-CEO David Schröder and Flix founder André Schwämmlein. The list also includes established managers such as former Telekom CEO René Obermann, former Thyssenkrupp Supervisory Board Chairman Gerhard Cromme, and Thomas Book, a member of the Executive Board at Deutsche Börse.

"Better Utilization of Potential"

Under the title "For a New Era of Entrepreneurship, Now," the signatories are calling for reforms to bolster innovation, growth, and competitiveness. Germany possesses many advantages, such as world-class research, skilled talent, and a strong industrial base, Pausder said. "We must utilize this potential much more effectively."

The group argues that the state should enable nationwide company formation within 24 hours. Furthermore, there is a need for greater incentives for startup spin-offs from universities and research institutes. The state should also promote the European corporate legal form "EU Inc." and support innovative companies by acting as an anchor customer through public procurement. Other demands target the broader economy, including more flexible dismissal protection for high earners, increased investment in digital infrastructure and AI computing capacity, and more practical conditions for employee stock options.

Federal Government Faces Decisive Weeks

A high-level coalition meeting is scheduled for July 1. The federal government intends to present a concrete reform package, covering areas such as the tax system and the labor market, before the summer break. Prior to this, the government's pension commission is expected to present its findings, likely as early as next week./als/DP/jha