Due to its wide range of applications in science and industry, laser technology belongs to the most important focus areas in Berlin-Brandenburg within the cluster "Optik" (Optical Technology and Microsystems Technology).
The key to the success of the region is the strong research environment with its close connection to local industry. Over the past years, a variety of network structures have been formed in the capital region. They grant companies and research facilities access to resources such as knowledge or capital, both on the local and global level. Besides, companies in this industry are often market leaders in niches – a strength of the industrial location Berlin-Brandenburg. Therefore laser technology achieves a remarkable contribution for the area of excellence within the region.
Laser Technology by numbers
Overall, 64 companies in Berlin-Brandenburg were assigned to the manufacturing sector of laser technology in which 12 companies actually manufacture lasers. The others are active in upstream and downstream industries, and are predominantly suppliers of components or system developers.
Turnover of the Berlin-Brandenburg companies rose from 197 million Euros in 2004 to 285 million Euros in 2008. Based on the available sales figures for 2009, a decline in sales of approximately 8% to 265 million Euros is predicted for that year. According to the forecasts of companies and already published data, it is predicted that the industry will recover in 2010 and even extend the results of 2008 with approximately 290 million euros.
Employment figures show a similar development. The number of employees in the companies in Berlin-Brandenburg rose from 1,430 in 2004 to 1,930 in 2008. The impact of the rising crises is weaker in the employment field. For 2009, a decrease of only 1% to 1,910 is predicted, whereas the companies also expect a total of 1,960 employees in 2010, i.e. more than 2008.
For more information see the available download of the
Report Laser Technology Berlin-Brandenburg.
