OSTALBKREIS

Our region, the Ostalbkreis, is located in the south of Germany in Baden-Württemberg at the border to Bavaria. It is a part of the mountain range Schwäbische Alb. The three centers of the Ostalbkreis Ellwangen, Aalen and Schwäbisch Gmünd are next to the three rivers: Jagst, Kocher and Rems. 
 
Part of our economy in the Ostalbkreis are big companies like Fein (working tools), Carl Zeiss (optical systems), Mapal KG (precision tools), Triumph AG (underwear), Varta (batteries), Weleda (beauty products and naturopathic medicines) and ZF/TRW (car safety and control systems, steering wheels) with international activity. There are also banks and insurance companies, like the Barmer GEK, working across Germany.
 
Stuttgart, the capital of Baden-Württemberg, is very important for industry and politics in Germany. The city is a center for international companies such as Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Siemens and Bosch. Exportation and trading is easily possible because of the river Neckar. Being the capital of one of the biggest federal states in Germany, Stuttgart is politically important in Germany.