Germany boasts a thriving publishing industry focused on books, e-books, and audiobooks. Companies range from large firms to smaller independent publishers, creating works across genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and special interest books. The rise of digital media has spurred growth in self-publishing and audiobooks, allowing authors to reach broader audiences directly. Moreover, sustainable practices are emerging as industry norms, with more publishing houses adopting eco-friendly materials and methods. Overall, while adapting to technology changes, the industry remains dedicated to delivering quality literature and maintaining its cultural significance in the German-speaking world.

The list features 24 publishing companies in Germany, diverse in size and specialization. From large operations with thousands of employees to smaller firms with fewer than 50 staff, these companies reflect a range of founding years, primarily from the post-war period. Most are located in major cities like Berlin and Hamburg, and they publish various works, from literary fiction to kids’ books and specialized materials. Their focus extends from print to digital formats such as e-books and audiobooks, marking a shift in how readers consume content today.

Read on to uncover the top publishing companies in Germany.

Top 24 Publishing Companies Companies in Germany

1. Ganske Verlagsgruppe

• Website: ganske.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: ganske-verlagsgruppe

Ganske Verlagsgruppe, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a private publishing company founded in 1991. It operates through several imprints, including Hoffmann und Campe Verlag, Hatje Cantz Verlag, and Gräfe und Unzer Verlag, among others. The company focuses on producing a wide range of books and magazines that cater to readers interested in literature and informative content. Ganske Verlagsgruppe is dedicated to delivering quality publications that meet the diverse reading needs of its audience. With a workforce of around 23 employees on LinkedIn, the company maintains a strong presence in the German publishing market, emphasizing its commitment to quality and depth in its offerings.

2. Suhrkamp Verlag GmbH

• Website: suhrkamp.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: suhrkamp

Suhrkamp Verlag GmbH, based in Berlin, Germany, is a private publishing company founded in 1950. It specializes in literature and cultural works, offering a wide array of books that cater to readers interested in contemporary literature. The company is known for its quality publications and actively engages with its audience through literary events and discussions. Suhrkamp Verlag also provides signed editions, enhancing the appeal of its offerings. With a workforce of approximately 91 employees, the company operates solely within Germany, focusing on serving the local market. Its commitment to literary excellence is reflected in the recognition of its authors, who frequently appear on prestigious award shortlists, such as the Deutscher Buchpreis and the Österreichischer Buchpreis.

3. Klett-Cotta Verlag

• Website: klett-cotta.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: klett-cotta-verlag

Klett-Cotta Verlag J.G. Cotta sche Buchhandlung Nachfolger GmbH, based in Stuttgart, Germany, is a private publishing company founded in 1977. It specializes in literature, non-fiction, and psychology-related books, catering to both consumers and organizations. The company is known for its high-quality publications and actively hosts literary events, contributing to the cultural and educational fabric of the community. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Klett-Cotta has a strong presence in the German market, focusing entirely on the publishing sector without diversifying into unrelated fields. Their catalog includes a mix of contemporary bestsellers and classic works, showcasing their commitment to both new and established authors.

4. Aufbau Verlage GmbH & Co. KG

• Website: aufbau-verlage.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: aufbau-verlag-gmbh-%26-co-kg

Aufbau Verlage GmbH & Co. KG, based in Berlin, Germany, is a private publishing company that has been operational since 1945. With a workforce of approximately 87 employees, the company specializes in a wide array of literary works, including books, e-books, and audio downloads. They focus on providing access to international literature and modern classics, catering to a diverse readership. The company primarily conducts its business through online sales, ensuring that customers can easily purchase their offerings. Aufbau Verlage is also involved in various literary events and actively promotes its authors, contributing to the cultural dialogue in the publishing sector. Their catalog includes a mix of fiction and non-fiction, reflecting contemporary issues and interests, which keeps them relevant in the competitive publishing landscape.

5. DuMont Buchverlag GmbH

• Website: dumont-buchverlag.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mülheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 89%, Australia 11%
• Founded year: 1956
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dumont-buchverlag-gmbh

DuMont Buchverlag GmbH, based in Mülheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a private publishing company founded in 1956. With a workforce of approximately 38 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the literary market by producing and selling a wide array of literary works, including traditional books, e-books, and audiobooks. DuMont Buchverlag is dedicated to catering to readers and book enthusiasts, providing access to both new releases and bestsellers. The company also plays an active role in the literary community by organizing events that foster cultural engagement. Their catalog features a mix of contemporary literature and notable authors, which helps them stay relevant in a competitive industry.

6. Aufbau Verlag GmbH & Co. KG

• Website: aufbau-verlag.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: aufbau-verlag-gmbh-%26-co-kg

Aufbau Verlag GmbH & Co. KG, based in Berlin, Germany, is a private publishing company that has been operational since 1945. With a workforce of around 30 employees, the company specializes in a wide array of literary works, including traditional print books, e-books, and audio downloads. Aufbau Verlag is known for its commitment to international literature and modern classics, catering to a readership that values quality literary content. The company not only sells its products through an online store but also actively engages with its audience through newsletters and literary events, enhancing its connection with readers. Their catalog includes a mix of fiction and non-fiction, reflecting contemporary issues and timeless themes. Aufbau Verlag's involvement in the industry is marked by its participation in significant literary events, such as the Frankfurt Book Fair, showcasing its relevance and commitment to the literary community.

7. Verlagsgruppe Droemer Knaur GmbH & Co. KG

• Website: droemer-knaur.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1901
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: verlagsgruppe-droemer-knaur-gmbh-%26-co-kg

Verlagsgruppe Droemer Knaur GmbH & Co. KG is a private publishing company based in Munich, Germany, with a history dating back to 1901. The firm specializes in a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books, appealing to various reader interests. Their catalog includes genres such as crime, thriller, romance, and self-help, showcasing their ability to adapt to changing market demands. The company engages directly with consumers through its online store, enhancing accessibility to its publications. Additionally, Droemer Knaur promotes its titles through local bookstores, reinforcing its commitment to traditional retail channels. With a workforce of approximately 192 employees, the company remains a significant player in the German publishing industry, focusing on both print and digital formats to reach its audience.

8. Rowohlt Verlag GmbH

• Website: rowohlt.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1908
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rowohlt-verlag-gmbh

Rowohlt Verlag GmbH, founded in 1908 and based in Hamburg, Germany, is a private publishing company that focuses on a wide array of literary works. The company publishes fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novels, catering to a variety of reader interests. With a workforce of approximately 154 employees, Rowohlt Verlag is dedicated to providing access to both new releases and bestsellers, thereby fostering a vibrant reading community. The company operates solely within Germany, emphasizing its commitment to the local literary market. Rowohlt Verlag also engages in rights and licensing, allowing for international collaboration and distribution of its titles. The absence of reported funding indicates a stable operational model, relying on its established reputation and market presence.

9. dtv Verlagsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG

• Website: dtv.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1962
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: dtv-verlagsgesellschaft-mbh-%26-co.-kg

dtv Verlagsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, is a private publishing company that has been active since 1962. Specializing in a wide range of books, e-books, and audiobooks, dtv serves a broad audience of readers and book enthusiasts. The company is known for its quality content, offering both new releases and classic literature. dtv operates an online store, making it easy for customers to access their titles. The publisher is recognized for its significant output, releasing approximately 400 new titles each year across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and children's literature. dtv has also made a name for itself in the audiobook market, further expanding its reach. The company is committed to promoting literature and engaging with its audience through events and a dedicated magazine, showcasing their active involvement in the publishing industry.

10. Verlag Kiepenheuer & Witsch GmbH & Co. KG

• Website: kiwi-verlag.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1948
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: verlag-kiepenheuer-%26-witsch-gmbh-%26-co.-kg

Verlag Kiepenheuer & Witsch GmbH & Co. KG, commonly known as Kiwi Verlag, is a German publishing house based in Cologne. Established in 1948, the company has carved out a niche in the literary market by focusing on contemporary literature, biographies, and non-fiction. With a dedicated team of approximately 66 employees, Kiepenheuer & Witsch is known for its commitment to quality and engaging narratives. The publisher offers a range of formats, catering to various reader interests, from bestsellers to classic literature. Their catalog includes works from both established and emerging authors, reflecting a robust engagement with the literary community. The company also actively participates in rights and licensing, indicating a strategic approach to expanding its reach in the global market. Kiepenheuer & Witsch has not reported any recent funding, suggesting a stable operational model that relies on its publishing activities rather than external financial support.

11. gestalten

• Website: gestalten.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 90%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gestalten

gestalten is a private publishing company based in Berlin, Germany, established in 1995. With a workforce of around 50 employees, the company specializes in producing high-quality books that span various genres, including architecture, design, food, and children's literature. They cater to both consumers and businesses, offering a range of products through their online store. Their business model emphasizes direct sales, allowing them to connect closely with their audience. In addition to their publishing activities, gestalten is involved in sustainability initiatives, partnering with Tree Nation to plant a tree for every book purchased. This commitment to environmental responsibility reflects a modern approach to business that resonates with today's consumers. Their catalog includes popular titles and new releases, showcasing their ongoing relevance in the publishing industry.

12. Hanser Verlag

• Website: hanser.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1928
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hanser-verlag

Carl Hanser Verlag GmbH & Co. KG, based in Munich, Germany, is a prominent publishing house founded in 1928. The company specializes in a wide array of literature, including fiction, non-fiction, and technical publications. It caters to a diverse clientele, from casual readers to educational institutions and professionals seeking specialized knowledge. Hanser Verlag is known for its commitment to quality and has built a reputation for publishing significant works in both literary and technical fields. The company operates through the sale of books and magazines, providing valuable resources for entertainment and education. With a workforce of approximately 157 employees, Hanser Verlag continues to play a vital role in the publishing industry, adapting to changing market demands while maintaining its core focus on literature and specialized content.

13. Piper Verlag

• Website: piper.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Julbach, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1904
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: piper-verlag

Piper Verlag, founded in 1904, is a prominent book publishing company based in Julbach, Bavaria, Germany. With a workforce of approximately 118 employees, it has carved out a niche in both fiction and non-fiction literature. The company offers a wide array of genres, including fantasy, thrillers, and travel reports, catering to a broad audience of readers and book enthusiasts. Piper Verlag is known for its quality literature and has a strong online presence, allowing customers to purchase books directly from its website. The publisher has a rich history and has published works from notable authors, contributing significantly to the literary scene in Germany. Its commitment to providing engaging content and fostering a community of readers underscores its relevance in the publishing industry.

14. BookRix

• Website: bookrix.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 69%, Austria 31%
• Latest funding: May 2014
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bookrix

BookRix, founded in 2008 and based in Flensburg, Germany, operates as a self-publishing platform designed for independent writers. The company provides a user-friendly interface for authors to publish their eBooks and distribute them across major online retailers. In addition to publishing services, BookRix offers a community space where writers can connect with readers, share their works, and download free eBooks. The platform supports various genres, including fiction, romance, and thrillers, catering to a wide audience. With a small team of 16 employees, BookRix has maintained its operations without external funding since 2014, indicating a sustainable business model focused on empowering indie authors.

15. Verlagsgruppe Oetinger

• Website: oetinger.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1946
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: verlagsgruppe-oetinger-services-gmbh

Verlagsgruppe Oetinger, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a private publishing company that specializes in children's and youth literature. Established in 1946, the company has built a reputation for its commitment to quality and creativity in publishing. Oetinger offers a wide array of products, including picture books, audiobooks, and educational materials, aimed at engaging young readers and supporting their development. The company serves a broad customer base, including parents and educators, who seek enriching literature for children. Oetinger is known for its collaboration with renowned authors such as Astrid Lindgren and Cornelia Funke, and it actively promotes themes of diversity and social awareness in its publications. The company also emphasizes the importance of reading aloud, providing resources that enhance language development and imagination in children.

16. Carlsen Verlag GmbH

• Website: carlsen.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 96%, Austria 3%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1953
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: carlsen-verlag-gmbh

Carlsen Verlag GmbH, established in 1953 and located in Hamburg, Germany, is a private publishing company that specializes in children's books, comics, and young adult literature. With a workforce of approximately 219 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the publishing industry by focusing on engaging and age-appropriate reading materials. Their catalog features popular titles, including the Harry Potter series and various Disney works, which highlights their ability to secure rights to high-demand content. Carlsen Verlag operates primarily as a retailer, selling directly to consumers through their online store, which allows them to maintain a close relationship with their audience. The company also engages in educational publishing, providing materials for schools and kindergartens, further solidifying their role in the educational sector. Their commitment to producing quality literature for younger audiences positions them as a relevant player in the publishing industry.

17. teNeues Publishing

• Website: teneues.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1931
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: teneues-verlag-gmbh

teNeues Publishing, officially known as teNeues Verlag GmbH, is a family-owned publishing house based in Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany. Founded in 1931, the company has carved out a niche in the market by specializing in high-quality illustrated books, particularly in the fields of photography, art, travel, and lifestyle. teNeues collaborates with a range of internationally recognized photographers and authors, producing visually stunning publications that appeal to both consumers and businesses. Their catalog includes limited luxury editions and corporate publishing projects, showcasing their ability to cater to various market segments. The company operates globally, distributing its titles in multiple languages and maintaining a strong online presence through its e-commerce platform. With a dedicated team of around 24 employees, teNeues continues to thrive in the competitive publishing industry, focusing on quality and creativity in its offerings.

18. Arena Verlag GmbH

• Website: arena-verlag.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 1949
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: arena-verlag

Arena Verlag GmbH, founded in 1949, is a private publishing company based in Germany, specializing in children's and youth literature. With a workforce of 11 to 50 employees, the company has established itself as a key player in the market for educational materials and books aimed at young readers. Arena Verlag offers a wide array of titles, including picture books, early readers, and educational resources, catering to children from infancy through adolescence. Their publications are designed not only to entertain but also to educate, making them a preferred choice for parents and educators alike. The company actively engages in workshops and events that promote reading among children, further solidifying its role in the industry. Arena Verlag's focus on quality literature for young audiences ensures its relevance in the publishing sector, particularly in a time when fostering literacy is increasingly important.

19. Gmeiner-Verlag GmbH

• Website: gmeiner-verlag.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 67%, Switzerland 33%
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gmeiner-verlag-gmbh

Gmeiner-Verlag GmbH, founded in 1986, is a private publishing company based in Germany. With a workforce of around 30 employees, the company specializes in various literary genres, particularly crime fiction, historical novels, and cultural literature. Gmeiner-Verlag caters to literature enthusiasts by offering a catalog that includes thrillers, true crime, and regional stories. They actively engage with their audience through literary events and provide tools for readers to discover books that resonate with their interests. The company primarily operates through online sales, reflecting a modern approach to book distribution. Their focus on hosting events and connecting with authors further solidifies their role in the publishing industry, making them a notable player in their specific market segment.

20. Taschen

• Website: taschen.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 38%, United States (USA) 19%, United Kingdom (UK) 13%, Other 30%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: taschen

Taschen is a private luxury art book publisher based in Germany, founded in 1980 by Benedikt Taschen. The company specializes in high-quality art books, including limited editions and gifts, catering to art lovers and collectors. Taschen's publications cover a wide range of topics, from art and architecture to photography and pop culture. They operate both online and through physical stores in major cities worldwide, including Berlin, Beverly Hills, and Paris. The company is known for its meticulous attention to detail in design and production, ensuring that each book is not just a reading material but a collectible piece of art. Taschen has built a strong brand identity around accessible yet luxurious publishing, making it a significant player in the art book market.

21. VEMAG Verlags- & Medien AG

• Website: vemag-medien.de
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: January 2021
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: vemag-verlags-medien-ag

VEMAG Verlags- & Medien AG, based in Neunkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a publishing company founded in 1983. The firm specializes in producing a wide array of books, including children's literature and practical guides for adults. VEMAG operates in various retail environments, ensuring that their products are accessible to a broad audience. They have a strong logistics component, managing the distribution of millions of printed materials each year. The company is committed to high-quality print products that are affordable, aiming to democratize access to literature. VEMAG's books are found in millions of homes worldwide, reflecting their significant market presence. They also focus on sustainability, implementing practices to reduce their environmental impact, such as using FSC-certified paper and minimizing plastic use in packaging. Their innovative approach includes launching new imprints and ventures, such as the recent establishment of a children's book startup in the UK. VEMAG's dedication to quality, accessibility, and sustainability positions it as a relevant player in the publishing industry.

22. Neopubli GmbH

• Website: neopubli.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 87%, Switzerland 13%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: neopubli-gmbh

Neopubli GmbH, founded in 2008 and based in Berlin, Germany, is a self-publishing service provider that specializes in offering platforms for authors to publish their works as e-books and print books. The company operates two main brands: neobooks and epubli, which provide comprehensive services including distribution to online shops and ISBN registration. Neopubli primarily targets individual authors seeking to self-publish, making the publishing process accessible and efficient. As part of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, one of Europe's prominent media companies, Neopubli benefits from a strong network of national and international distribution partners. This affiliation enhances their ability to support authors in reaching a wider audience. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a stable operational model focused on self-sustenance and growth through its services.

23. Libri GmbH

• Website: libri.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1928
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: libri-gmbh

Libri GmbH, founded in 1928 and based in Hamburg, Germany, operates as a logistics and book wholesale company. With a workforce of around 850 employees, Libri specializes in providing a range of services tailored for independent bookstores and publishers. These services include inventory management software, eCommerce solutions, and comprehensive book distribution. Libri's extensive catalog features millions of titles, and it supports the book trade with modern logistics and IT infrastructures. The company also engages in initiatives like Libri.Campus, which fosters education and collaboration within the independent book trade. By facilitating timely access to a wide selection of books and logistical support, Libri plays a crucial role in the success of its clients in the publishing industry.

24. argon hörbuch

• Website: argon-verlag.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: argon-verlag-gmbh

Argon hörbuch, based in Berlin, Germany, is a private audiobook publisher founded in 2005. With a team of approximately 36 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the audiobook market, offering a wide array of titles that span genres such as literature, romance, crime, and educational content. Their platform allows consumers easy access to both new releases and bestsellers, reflecting their active engagement in the industry. Argon hörbuch not only publishes audiobooks but also collaborates with various authors and voice talents, enhancing the quality and appeal of their offerings. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model focused on the audiobook segment.

Publishing Companies Insights: Key Companies in Germany

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