A SERVICE hoping to attract more German companies to the region was launched yesterday.
The European Business centre, in North Tyneside, makes it easier for German companies to find a base in the North-East.
It also offers a support package, through German-born Manuela Wendler and business development officer Wibke Baumann.
Ms Wendler said: "Our long-term goal is to bring new companies into the North-East, creating new employment opportunities and also open doors for regional companies into the German economy.
"Networking can prove difficult for German business people, because of their different working culture, and that is where the European Business Centre can help."
The project has been funded by regional development agency One NorthEast and the Tyne and Wear Development Company.
It will target businesses in sectors that match the region's strengths, such as renewable energy and the development of medical devices.
Support to German companies includes making contacts and arranging accommodation for staff.
The North-East is already home to more than 50 German companies and 8,500 German nationals.
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