Bitkom vs BVDW

German Companies Worry About US Tech Dependency

A Bitkom survey reveals that 96% of German companies rely on foreign digital products and services. If these imports were to fail entirely, companies estimate they could continue operations for an average of 16 months. Concerns about dependency on the US have risen sharply, with 73% now worried, up from 38% in 2024. China remains a risk for 79% of firms. The survey, based on 602 companies, was presented at the Digital-Gipfel on October 19, 2026. Bitkom calls for investments in key technologies like semiconductors, AI, and cloud infrastructure to bolster digital sovereignty.

• 96% of German companies import digital products or services from abroad.
• Companies could survive an average of 16 months without digital imports.
• 73% of companies are concerned about dependence on US technology, up from 38% in 2024.

Germany's d-you Wallet: Over 50% Want to Use It

A Bitkom survey reveals that 53% of Germans are interested in using the upcoming EUDI digital wallet 'd-you', scheduled to launch on January 2, 2027. However, 46% of respondents have never heard of the project. The wallet will initially support digital identity and age verification, with additional features like driver's license and e-signatures to follow. The German government plans to introduce a Digital Identities Act to provide the legal basis. Bitkom president Ralf Wintergerst emphasizes the need for diverse applications at launch. Additionally, a free PIN reset service is planned to ease onboarding. Over 180 companies have expressed readiness to integrate the wallet technology.

• 53% of Germans (1,004 surveyed) are open to using the d-you wallet.
• 46% of adults have never heard of the EUDI wallet project.
• The wallet is scheduled to launch on January 2, 2027.

OTTO Launches GenAI Enablement Partner Program

OTTO has launched a new GenAI Enablement Partner Program, selecting 37 employees to support various departments in identifying, prioritizing, and implementing concrete generative AI use cases. The program aims to systematically integrate AI into business processes and create measurable value from existing knowledge. Participants were chosen through nominations, self-applications, and interviews, and will undergo a five-day Bitkom training certification. They will dedicate at least 20% of their work time to this role. This initiative builds on the previous GenAI Ambassador program, which focused on spreading AI knowledge, and represents a shift towards practical implementation and long-term integration of AI into daily workflows.

• OTTO launched a GenAI Enablement Partner Program.
• 37 employees were selected as GenAI Enablement Partners.
• Participants undergo a five-day Bitkom training and certification.

DMEXCO 2026: Digitale Wirtschaft auf dem Weg von Künstlicher Intelligenz zu echter Wertschöpfung

New press release published on 25.09.2026: 'DMEXCO 2026: Digitale Wirtschaft auf dem Weg von Künstlicher Intelligenz zu echter Wertschöpfung'. Also updated press material reflecting the new BVDW Präsidium elected on 26.06.2026, with Björn Kaspring as new member.

Digital Economy Contributes €481 Billion to German GDP

A study by the German Digital Economy Association (BVDW) and the research firm Istari quantifies the economic impact of Germany's digital economy, estimating it at €481 billion in gross value added for 2025, representing nearly 12% of total German GVA. The analysis, based on AI-assisted examination of 1.4 million market-active companies, categorizes them into three groups: the digital core economy (software, platforms, AdTech, data providers, digital agencies) with €192 billion GVA, digitally driven business models (online retailers, digital media), and digitally transformed industries, which together account for over €1 trillion. The study aims to highlight the significance of digital business models beyond traditional industry classifications, particularly to inform policy decisions.

• The digital economy in Germany generates €481 billion in gross value added, nearly 12% of the total.
• Around 229,000 companies are classified as part of the digital economy.
• The digital core economy alone accounts for €192 billion GVA from ~63,000 companies.

Retail Media Reaches 'Path of Enlightenment' in 2026 Trend Monitor

The Retail Media 2026 Trend Monitor, based on insights from the expert circle of the Working Group Die Mediaagenturen, indicates that retail media has established itself as a permanent part of the digital advertising market. The focus has shifted from proving its general relevance to demonstrating effectiveness, data transparency, and technical interoperability. The report highlights the need for standardized measurement and clear success metrics, as well as the integration of retail media into broader advertising technology stacks. This marks a maturation phase for the sector, moving beyond initial hype towards practical, scalable implementation.

• The Trendmonitor Retail Media 2026 is based on assessments from the Retail Media expert circle of the Trendmonitor 2026 working group 'Die Mediaagenturen'.
• Retail media has established itself as a fixed component of the digital advertising market.
• The report emphasizes the shift from proving relevance to demonstrating effectiveness, data transparency, and technical connectivity.