Executive review 2/2005 - Growth strategies

Axel Schmidt

As everyone had hoped, the long overdue investments in the capital goods industry now have materialized and foreign economies show robust export ratios that to some extent also spur domestic demand. The industry is set for growth. However, this growth does not run on its own resources, but has been carefully prepared for by past rationalization initiatives.

Cost cutting possibilities have been all but exploited, and in light of soaring commodities prices and the sustained strength of the Euro, new ways for stimulating growth need to be found. The present issue focuses on strategies for growth and sets out to do some research into the matter. Our key issue "High or low pressure front" examines just how optimistic the forecasts really are for the emergent market of regenerative energies.

Our interview partner is Professor Dr. Oliver Gassmann, Professor for Technology Management and Head of the Department for Technology Management at the University of St. Gallen. He will explain how favorable conditions can be created for innovation.

The following background article provides additional information on how to "develop innovations faster, more in line with the market and at lower cost". Exports are also an important force driving growth. The article "Gaining ground with exports" shows how German companies can strategically position themselves in foreign markets. "Tapping cash reserves for growth" indicates ways in which companies can gain the necessary room to maneuver to invest into growth without injecting fresh capital.

Please note that our Executive review is published in German only.

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