Introduction

Abstract

More than ever, German companies have to compete in an environment of increasing global competition. The recent years in particular have seen increasing relocation of production. It therefore has to be the concern of high-wage countries to evaluate and define the conditions under which domestic businesses can successfully develop and produce corresponding products. In terms of economic relevance, these products have to address not only niche markets but also markets of adequate volume. How can these companies sustainably increase the level of value creation while minimising necessary planning activities, which by definition are not value adding? And how can they solve the dichotomy between individualisation and mass production? Delivering answers to these questions is crucial to strengthen domestic industrial production and has the potential to sustainably lower unemployment.