Success story Features of the region A³ is all of this – and much more

How would you describe the Augsburg region? What characterises its inhabitants and how can the regional attitude to life be described? Not so easy, is it? As part of a project sponsored by the Free State of Bavaria, Regio Augsburg Wirtschaft GmbH looked into these and similar questions and, among other things, identified typical characteristics of regional identity in surveys.

That's what it's about:

Our Augsburg region has many facets. It is rich in opportunities, dynamic, committed, progressive ... Whether you are a skilled worker, a company or an investor - everyone will find a suitable starting point here.

Dynamic – adaptable and always on the move

The Augsburg region has always known how to adapt to developments, now known as ‘megatrends’, and is increasingly transforming itself from a pure production location to a centre of knowledge. As a result, ever more diversified industries are emerging, a wide range of technologies are being used, the scientific and research landscape is growing and fertilising the region and its companies. The A³ economic region offers all players ideas, clever minds, innovations and technologies, and thus the opportunities and space to develop. Active networks and a lively exchange between research and business enable future technologies to be anchored in regional companies.

One example is the ‘Innovation Hub A³’, a unique initiative in Bavaria. The aim is to create new cross-connections and synergies in the regional innovation system – on the basis of binding, process-orientated and digitally supported cooperation. This will create a new level of efficiency and, above all, quality in the promotion of innovation in the Augsburg region. The Augsburg Innovation Park with the Augsburg Technology Centre (TZA) is a partner of the hub and a dynamic driving force for innovation and business in the region. Companies and research institutions will find excellent infrastructure, space and networking opportunities there - in close proximity to the specialists of tomorrow at the university. The Digital Centre Swabia (DZ.S for short) complements the Augsburg Innovation Park with attractive offers for start-ups and focuses on digitalisation topics.

A step back: pure dynamism and the driving force in the region has always been water. In 2019, Augsburg's historic water system was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to providing drive and energy for the historic economy, water automatically brings with it quality of life - the numerous lakes, rivers, streams and canals offer a wide range of opportunities for dynamic - or relaxing - leisure activities.

Committed – there for each other with a sense of community

‘mitanand & füranand’, the volunteer agency in the district of Aichach-Friedberg, sums up what the entire region stands for with its name in a likeable dialect: social commitment and voluntary work. The variety of projects and initiatives as well as the high number of volunteers bear witness to this. From helping people in need to collecting rubbish and volunteering in local clubs - volunteers in the region are an essential part of the community and their efforts are valued. The mitanand & füranand volunteer agency in the district of Aichach-Friedberg is a contact and referral centre for all aspects of volunteering. The Augsburg Volunteer Centre is a contact point for civic engagement and brings volunteers and suitable projects together. Beyond this, numerous companies are also committed to the common good and sustainable development of the region. Corporate social responsibility (‘CSR’) and voluntary commitment not only strengthen the community, but also team cohesion within companies. The fact that companies are strongly committed to the region in the long term is demonstrated by numerous corporate networks that are committed to important issues in the region. Around 200 companies from and for the region are involved in the A³ Förderverein alone, driving forward projects in the areas of securing skilled labour, sustainability and innovation.

Committed – there for each other with a sense of community

‘mitanand & füranand’, the volunteer agency in the district of Aichach-Friedberg, sums up what the entire region stands for with its name in a likeable dialect: social commitment and voluntary work. The variety of projects and initiatives as well as the high number of volunteers bear witness to this. From helping people in need to collecting rubbish and volunteering in local clubs - volunteers in the region are an essential part of the community and their efforts are valued. The mitanand & füranand volunteer agency in the district of Aichach-Friedberg is a contact and referral centre for all aspects of volunteering. The Augsburg Volunteer Centre is a contact point for civic engagement and brings volunteers and suitable projects together. Beyond this, numerous companies are also committed to the common good and sustainable development of the region. Corporate social responsibility (‘CSR’) and voluntary commitment not only strengthen the community, but also team cohesion within companies. The fact that companies are strongly committed to the region in the long term is demonstrated by numerous corporate networks that are committed to important issues in the region. Around 200 companies from and for the region are involved in the A³ Förderverein alone, driving forward projects in the areas of securing skilled labour, sustainability and innovation.

Tolerant – the more colourful, the better

Augsburg is a city of peace: this not only gives its citizens an extra public holiday each year, the ‘Augsburg High Peace Festival’ on 8 August, but peace is also a hallmark of the city's identity. The festival dates back to the Peace of Augsburg, which was concluded in 1555 during the Reformation and is considered the first peace treaty between the denominations in Europe. Every year, the Peace Festival reminds us that peaceful coexistence in a society with different religions, cultures and ways of life is a valuable asset. In addition to numerous events and activities, the peace table is an elementary component and the final highlight of a programme lasting several weeks: a joint picnic on the town hall square, where everyone can contribute something culinary. Numerous associations and organisations from the city community take part.

Internationality is an important topic in the city, almost 50 per cent of whose inhabitants now have a migration background. This is precisely why the numerous international associations and initiatives active locally are so important. One special project in this context is the Grandhotel Cosmopolis. Refugees, artists and travellers come together here. It is a meeting place that shows that peaceful coexistence can work in a colourful urban society.

An equally important contribution is made by committed companies that have been working hard to recruit foreign workers and offer special support services, and not just since the recent shortage of skilled labour. Tür an Tür - Integrationsprojekte GmbH has gained great recognition through its activities such as the Augsburg Mentoring Partnership and its impetus in the ‘Migranet’.

Tolerant – the more colourful, the better

Augsburg is a city of peace: this not only gives its citizens an extra public holiday each year, the ‘Augsburg High Peace Festival’ on 8 August, but peace is also a hallmark of the city's identity. The festival dates back to the Peace of Augsburg, which was concluded in 1555 during the Reformation and is considered the first peace treaty between the denominations in Europe. Every year, the Peace Festival reminds us that peaceful coexistence in a society with different religions, cultures and ways of life is a valuable asset. In addition to numerous events and activities, the peace table is an elementary component and the final highlight of a programme lasting several weeks: a joint picnic on the town hall square, where everyone can contribute something culinary. Numerous associations and organisations from the city community take part.

Internationality is an important topic in the city, almost 50 per cent of whose inhabitants now have a migration background. This is precisely why the numerous international associations and initiatives active locally are so important. One special project in this context is the Grandhotel Cosmopolis. Refugees, artists and travellers come together here. It is a meeting place that shows that peaceful coexistence can work in a colourful urban society.

An equally important contribution is made by committed companies that have been working hard to recruit foreign workers and offer special support services, and not just since the recent shortage of skilled labour. Tür an Tür - Integrationsprojekte GmbH has gained great recognition through its activities such as the Augsburg Mentoring Partnership and its impetus in the ‘Migranet’.

A business location steeped in history

Even though the Augsburg region is currently successfully positioning itself for the future in many economic sectors, the past is naturally reflected in the current appearance of the Augsburg economic region and has left a formative influence. The former textile stronghold of Augsburg is still present in the cityscape. For example, the Augsburg State Textile and Industrial Museum (tim) is housed on the site of the former Augsburg worsted spinning mill. And even if the textile industry is not currently a significant economic sector in the region, there are still renowned and sustainable textile companies, such as Schöffel, Deuter, Tatonka, manomama and Degree Clothing, which are building on the great past.

Rudolf Diesel developed the engine named after him in Augsburg at the end of the 19th century. His legacy lives on today in MAN Energy Solutions. Among other things, the company is a supplier of large diesel engines and turbomachinery. Today, the oldest preserved diesel engine in the world can be seen in the MAN Museum. Augsburg also has a long tradition in the aviation industry, which still employs thousands of people today. The Augsburg region is characterised by traditional and family businesses. For example, the famous ‘Spezi’ lemonade comes from the Riegele brewery in Augsburg and the most widely used Topstar pub chair comes from Langenneufnach in the so-called ‘Stauden’ in the western district of Augsburg.

A business location steeped in history

Even though the Augsburg region is currently successfully positioning itself for the future in many economic sectors, the past is naturally reflected in the current appearance of the Augsburg economic region and has left a formative influence. The former textile stronghold of Augsburg is still present in the cityscape. For example, the Augsburg State Textile and Industrial Museum (tim) is housed on the site of the former Augsburg worsted spinning mill. And even if the textile industry is not currently a significant economic sector in the region, there are still renowned and sustainable textile companies, such as Schöffel, Deuter, Tatonka, manomama and Degree Clothing, which are building on the great past.

Rudolf Diesel developed the engine named after him in Augsburg at the end of the 19th century. His legacy lives on today in MAN Energy Solutions. Among other things, the company is a supplier of large diesel engines and turbomachinery. Today, the oldest preserved diesel engine in the world can be seen in the MAN Museum. Augsburg also has a long tradition in the aviation industry, which still employs thousands of people today. The Augsburg region is characterised by traditional and family businesses. For example, the famous ‘Spezi’ lemonade comes from the Riegele brewery in Augsburg and the most widely used Topstar pub chair comes from Langenneufnach in the so-called ‘Stauden’ in the western district of Augsburg.

Rich in opportunities and diverse

In the Augsburg region, employees find a liveable environment with well-paid jobs, excellent career opportunities and an attractive living environment. The broad-based SME sector meets hidden champions, dynamic start-ups and renowned universities that conduct cutting-edge research. Innovative research institutions and world market leaders are based here.

The excellent infrastructure with very good transport links, comparatively affordable housing, a high level of security and a wide range of leisure activities make the region an extremely attractive location. The wide range of opportunities offers specialists long-term prospects and an optimal work-life balance. And here you will find everything you need for personal development. Reconciling family, care and career and thus achieving professional and private goals is made easier by the flexibility of the local companies, be it in new working time models or through New Work.

In order to master new challenges, the Augsburg region offers a wide range of (further) education programmes that can help in all situations and open new doors. There is also great diversity in the region's population, which is home to a wide range of cultural backgrounds. International associations build bridges between cultures and integrative measures make it easier for migrants to gain a foothold in the region. Diversity can also be found in the region's landscape and culture.

Rich in opportunities and diverse

In the Augsburg region, employees find a liveable environment with well-paid jobs, excellent career opportunities and an attractive living environment. The broad-based SME sector meets hidden champions, dynamic start-ups and renowned universities that conduct cutting-edge research. Innovative research institutions and world market leaders are based here.

The excellent infrastructure with very good transport links, comparatively affordable housing, a high level of security and a wide range of leisure activities make the region an extremely attractive location. The wide range of opportunities offers specialists long-term prospects and an optimal work-life balance. And here you will find everything you need for personal development. Reconciling family, care and career and thus achieving professional and private goals is made easier by the flexibility of the local companies, be it in new working time models or through New Work.

In order to master new challenges, the Augsburg region offers a wide range of (further) education programmes that can help in all situations and open new doors. There is also great diversity in the region's population, which is home to a wide range of cultural backgrounds. International associations build bridges between cultures and integrative measures make it easier for migrants to gain a foothold in the region. Diversity can also be found in the region's landscape and culture.

Progressive

Science, research and development institutions and forward-looking companies are driving innovation and technology in the Augsburg economic region. The Augsburg Innovation Park is one of the largest innovation parks in Europe, covering an area of 70 hectares. Here, innovations are accelerated by open processes and growth processes are supported. Knowledge sources meet knowledge users in an ideal environment. In addition, the traditional production location of Augsburg has developed into a unique concentration of production-oriented technology companies, application-oriented research institutions and specialised workers in recent years. The robotics region A³ is actively shaping Industry 4.0 through the technology leaders based here, reinforced by the AI production network founded in 2021 and successful research projects on energy-adaptive production systems.

Progressive

Science, research and development institutions and forward-looking companies are driving innovation and technology in the Augsburg economic region. The Augsburg Innovation Park is one of the largest innovation parks in Europe, covering an area of 70 hectares. Here, innovations are accelerated by open processes and growth processes are supported. Knowledge sources meet knowledge users in an ideal environment. In addition, the traditional production location of Augsburg has developed into a unique concentration of production-oriented technology companies, application-oriented research institutions and specialised workers in recent years. The robotics region A³ is actively shaping Industry 4.0 through the technology leaders based here, reinforced by the AI production network founded in 2021 and successful research projects on energy-adaptive production systems.

Attractive – and authentically beautiful

Some locals say: ‘The Augsburg region is simply beautiful.’ The Fuggerstadt offers historic buildings and modern architecture, while the surrounding area boasts a varied landscape and extremely pretty town centres. With its proximity to the state capital of Munich on the one hand and the Alps on the other, the geographical location offers advantages for the economy as well as for local recreation. Urban-rural links are strengthened by good connections and offer a good mix of nature, recreation and cultural programmes. Strong mobility networks and networks link town and country.

The Augsburg region is also very attractive as a business location: innovative company networks promote industries and specific topics. The Augsburg economic region has always been fertile ground for medium-sized companies, hidden champions and global players. They are all key to growth and prosperity.

Attractive – and authentically beautiful

Some locals say: ‘The Augsburg region is simply beautiful.’ The Fuggerstadt offers historic buildings and modern architecture, while the surrounding area boasts a varied landscape and extremely pretty town centres. With its proximity to the state capital of Munich on the one hand and the Alps on the other, the geographical location offers advantages for the economy as well as for local recreation. Urban-rural links are strengthened by good connections and offer a good mix of nature, recreation and cultural programmes. Strong mobility networks and networks link town and country.

The Augsburg region is also very attractive as a business location: innovative company networks promote industries and specific topics. The Augsburg economic region has always been fertile ground for medium-sized companies, hidden champions and global players. They are all key to growth and prosperity.

Responsible

Climate protection and sustainability have long been a high priority in the Augsburg region. Numerous projects and initiatives support companies, institutions and private households on their way to a more sustainable future. The joint project of the city of Augsburg, the district of Augsburg and the district of Aichach-Friedberg ‘Ökoprofit®’ (ÖKOlogisches PROjekt Für Integrierte UmweltTechnik) strengthens the participating companies economically through preventive environmental protection - a benefit for the environment and the economy. In addition, nature and water protection measures are implemented to preserve the habitat of the unique flora and fauna. The A³ climate-neutral project supports companies from the region in becoming climate-neutral by 2030. The city of Augsburg has developed guidelines for the future that are based on the UN's SDGs and serve as a basis for decision-making in all municipal decisions. A lively Local Agenda 21 combines civil society involvement with administration, politics and business.

Responsible

Climate protection and sustainability have long been a high priority in the Augsburg region. Numerous projects and initiatives support companies, institutions and private households on their way to a more sustainable future. The joint project of the city of Augsburg, the district of Augsburg and the district of Aichach-Friedberg ‘Ökoprofit®’ (ÖKOlogisches PROjekt Für Integrierte UmweltTechnik) strengthens the participating companies economically through preventive environmental protection - a benefit for the environment and the economy. In addition, nature and water protection measures are implemented to preserve the habitat of the unique flora and fauna. The A³ climate-neutral project supports companies from the region in becoming climate-neutral by 2030. The city of Augsburg has developed guidelines for the future that are based on the UN's SDGs and serve as a basis for decision-making in all municipal decisions. A lively Local Agenda 21 combines civil society involvement with administration, politics and business.

Likeable and endearing

‘The curtain rises: and the Kaschperle looks out’ - Just like the stories and characters of the Augsburger Puppenkiste, the people of the Augsburg region are simply likeable and endearing. This is possibly also due to their dialect, the ‘Augschburgerisch’. In the district of Aichach-Friedberg, on the other hand, people speak their own dialect, which combines both Bavarian and Swabian dialect elements.

In addition to Augsburg, there are many charming towns in the region, such as Schwabmünchen, Bobingen, Friedberg and Aichach - not to mention the numerous villages and market towns. They are characterised by a picturesque landscape and a relaxed, rural way of life. Here you can enjoy nature - and more - and unwind.

We are A³

It's safe to say that the Augsburg region has enormous appeal. By 2026, 700,000 people are expected to live and work here. People in the Augsburg economic region can expect a wide range of opportunities, both professionally and privately. Whether relocating or moving, starting a business or expanding - the A³ region offers the right partners and networks to make it easier to decide where to live, work or locate. The Augsburg region is a place where everyone can realise their professional and private goals and find personal fulfilment.

Pictures say more than thousands of words: To express the attitude to life in the Augsburg region, video clips were created in summer 2022 that convey a colourful and intense impression of the many aspects mentioned here. The results can be found here:

Likeable and endearing

‘The curtain rises: and the Kaschperle looks out’ - Just like the stories and characters of the Augsburger Puppenkiste, the people of the Augsburg region are simply likeable and endearing. This is possibly also due to their dialect, the ‘Augschburgerisch’. In the district of Aichach-Friedberg, on the other hand, people speak their own dialect, which combines both Bavarian and Swabian dialect elements.

In addition to Augsburg, there are many charming towns in the region, such as Schwabmünchen, Bobingen, Friedberg and Aichach - not to mention the numerous villages and market towns. They are characterised by a picturesque landscape and a relaxed, rural way of life. Here you can enjoy nature - and more - and unwind.

We are A³

It's safe to say that the Augsburg region has enormous appeal. By 2026, 700,000 people are expected to live and work here. People in the Augsburg economic region can expect a wide range of opportunities, both professionally and privately. Whether relocating or moving, starting a business or expanding - the A³ region offers the right partners and networks to make it easier to decide where to live, work or locate. The Augsburg region is a place where everyone can realise their professional and private goals and find personal fulfilment.

Pictures say more than thousands of words: To express the attitude to life in the Augsburg region, video clips were created in summer 2022 that convey a colourful and intense impression of the many aspects mentioned here. The results can be found here:

Go to the videos (in German)

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