At ecls translations, we are always looking to deepen our understanding of the industries we support – particularly as global conversations around innovation, sustainability and supply chains continue to evolve. That’s why it was a privilege to attend the recent German-British Chamber of Industry and Commerce Business Dinner in Birmingham, featuring guest speaker Dr. Markus Grüneisl, CEO of BMW (UK) Manufacturing Ltd.
The evening brought together senior professionals from across sectors to hear firsthand from one of the automotive industry’s most respected leaders. Dr. Grüneisl offered a candid, forward-thinking view of the current state of the UK and German car industries, and the wider implications for manufacturing and business resilience.
A Candid Look at Today’s Automotive Landscape
The discussion touched on some of the biggest topics facing manufacturers today, including:
- Trump’s proposed tariffs and the complex ripple effects these could have on the UK and German automotive markets
- The pressing challenges around EV targets, particularly when it comes to infrastructure development and rising energy prices
- Ambitious developments in green energy, including hydrogen vehicles
- The ongoing importance of data security and safety in the future of autonomous driving
- Greater emphasis on the sustainability of materials, with automotive companies innovating in the sourcing and lifecycle of components
- Exciting applications of robotics and AI – not just for quality assurance, but for remotely viewing and managing assembly lines across the globe
- The critical need for a strong, localised supply chain that can withstand political and economic uncertainties
Lessons Beyond the Automotive Sector
What stood out most from the evening was just how universal many of these challenges are. Although the discussion centred on the car industry, the themes of energy security, technological change, workforce development and sustainability resonate across multiple sectors, from logistics and infrastructure to tech.
These are also the challenges that ecls translations helps businesses navigate through strategic localisation. When businesses adapt their messaging, documentation and communications with clarity and cultural sensitivity, they find themselves better equipped to respond to the fast-changing dynamics of international trade and regulation.
Building Resilient, Purpose-Driven Businesses
Dr. Grüneisl also shared valuable insights about what it takes to thrive in uncertain times. Among the key takeaways for all businesses:
- Build and protect a strong brand identity
- Continuously invest in technology to remain agile and competitive
- Foster an internal culture of positivity and motivation – because happy employees create better outcomes
- Focus on quality – products and services that are built to last
- Lead with passion and remember the human side of your work. For BMW, that means “every customer starting the engine with a smile.”
These values align closely with our own approach at ecls translations. Whether we’re helping a tech start-up enter a new market or supporting a global manufacturer with multilingual compliance documents, our goal is always to deliver high-quality, people-focused services that make our clients’ work more effective and impactful.
A Night of Ideas, Connection and Shared Purpose
A huge thank you to Dr. Ulrich Hoppe and the German-British Chamber of Industry and Commerce for hosting such a thoughtful and engaging event, and to Dr. Markus Grüneisl from the BMW Group for sharing their insights with such clarity and conviction.
At ecls translations, we look forward to continuing to support businesses in the automotive and manufacturing sectors as they build resilient, future-ready operations in an ever-evolving global marketplace.
Want to learn how we support complex industries with smart, sector-savvy language solutions? Contact us today to discuss how ecls translations can help drive your business forward.