Countries

Cold Email in Germany

Germany has strict data protection and competition laws. B2B cold email is possible under legitimate interest, but requires careful attention to GDPR and UWG compliance.

Email Regulations

GDPR (DSGVO)

Comprehensive data protection regulation. B2B emails possible under legitimate interest basis.

Key Requirements:

  • -Document legitimate interest assessment
  • -Provide transparent information about data processing
  • -Enable easy opt-out
  • -Maintain processing records
  • -Appoint DPO if required

UWG (Unfair Competition Act)

German competition law that restricts unsolicited commercial communication.

Key Requirements:

  • -Must have presumed consent based on business context
  • -Content must be relevant to recipients business
  • -Cannot cause unreasonable harassment

Best Send Times

Timezone: CET/CEST (UTC+1/+2)
Best Hours: 9-11 AM and 2-4 PM CET
Best Days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

Key Industries

Automotive
Manufacturing
Engineering
Technology
Chemical
Healthcare
Financial Services

Business Culture Tips

  • -Germans value formality and professionalism
  • -Use formal titles and last names initially
  • -Be precise and factual in communication
  • -Avoid exaggeration or hyperbole
  • -Punctuality and reliability are essential

Common Decision Maker Titles

Geschaeftsfuehrer
Direktor
Leiter
Manager
Vorstand
Prokurist

Recommended Tools

Getting Started

Ready to launch cold email campaigns in Germany? Start by verifying your email lists and testing deliverability to ensure compliance and inbox placement.

Related Locations