Only 20% of German cars are made in Germany.

The country is renowned for its engineering prowess, but the reality is that production often takes place elsewhere. While localized production can be more environmentally friendly, cost considerations can lead to companies seeking out lower labour rates in other countries. As a comparison, Germany’s manufacturing hourly rate in 2021 was €37 EUR, whereas Turkey was €7 EUR. That’s 5 times lower. In fact, Turkey’s biggest export partner is Germany, representing 10% of the total country’s exports; and a good chunk of that is for vehicle parts and engines for the German automotive industry.

My point here is that “Cheap” labour doesn’t necessarily mean low quality. Sourcing is both an art and a science, and knowing where to buy can make or break any product's success.

Of course, there are trade-offs to be made when it comes to sustainability. Long-distance production and transportation can have significant environmental impacts, but offsetting these emissions through investments in green projects can help mitigate these effects; and with today's technology and resources, it's easier than ever to make a positive impact