Our German Desk in France is a member of the global network of Grant Thornton’s German Desks. Within this international structure, we assist German companies that wish to set up or develop existing business in France, and inversely, we also offer a wide range of services to those French companies targeting the German market.
As historical partners, France and Germany together are steadily building a common project for the future. As just an example in economic terms, it should be remembered that in 2022, Germany remains France's leading trading partner and France is Germany's fourth largest one. In terms of stocks, Germany is the second largest foreign investor in France behind the United States. Economic relations between France and Germany are supported by an extensive foreign trade support system, particularly for SMEs and mid-sized companies.
In this context, France remains the preferred European market for German companies and more particularly the famous “Mittelstand” (SMEs). Several sectors are notably targeted: the automobile industry, machinery and equipment, and computer, electrical and chemical products
The German Desk piloted in France by Christophe Guyot, Partner at the Strasbourg office, is made up of professionals who are all bilingual and bring a dual business culture. They are seasoned experts in the various markets and they fully understand German and French cultures in all their specificities. These experts work in direct contact with the integrated offices of Grant Thornton Germany and Grant Thornton Austria, and are supported by the full force of Grant Thornton International Limited, present in 140 countries.
Alexander Schraa, an experienced professional in the German and French markets leads the operational deployment of the Desk. At the heart of the structure, Alexander advises German companies and German speakers on their operational strategy in France. He assists his clients from the implementation phase and on all local accounting and tax issues. He also intervenes on subjects related to the rollout of ERP projects.
