Bitkom vs EACA

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.

Fiona McArthur Joins EACA Board as Chair of The Creative Agencies Council

dentsu Creative’s Chief Growth Officer takes up board-level role representing creative agencies across Europe.

EACA names Patou Nuytemans as Ambassador for Agency Value

Former Ogilvy EMEA CEO will make the case for a new agency business model – and argue the industry…

Back to school with two EACA Chats

Over 50s marketing and the Green Transition Directive, back to back.