Shelf Company in Germany

Engaging in business in Germany, one of the most powerful economies in the world, is usually done by setting up private companies, or branches on the countries territory. An entrepreneur can commence the business establishment from scratch, or acquire a shelf, or ready made company. This business type refers to a company which is already formed and incorporated in Germany, and has had no prior commercial activities. It is "brand new". However throughout the world, the process is not very popular, since entrepreneurs prefer to establish companies specially designed for their business. However there are plenty German shelf companies, for different business types, and they can be customized after the needs of the buyer.

Acquiring a German shelf company implies transferring the shares of the shelf company to the buyer, which can be a natural person or a legal entity. The share transfer process cannot be completed without a notary, as there are certain documents that need to be provided and authenticated. In order to start the process, the future shareholder must provide identification documents. The share transfer agreement must also be authenticated by the notary.

Upon share transfer, the new shareholder can commit different changes in the shelf company's structure, all of which must be brought to the attention of the German Commercial Register. The new owner of the company can change the name of the company, provided it obtains a certificate of uniqueness and approval, add objects of activity, changing address and appointing the new Board of Directors, the management of the company.

It is advisable for the entrepreneur to conduct a thorough documentation on the takeover company, and ensure there are no debts and liabilities he/she is not aware of, and learn the prior activities of the company, and its assets.

Even though the process of transferring shares and establishing a company, by acquiring a shelf company may seem the same as setting up a brand new company, it is only similar, implying a lot less time to function and a quicker and more efficient way to start business. Also the process is less complex, requiring less documentation, and shelf companies are varied, an entrepreneur having the possibility to opt for the company type, best suited for his business's needs.

BridgeWest is able to offer VAT-registered German shelf companies headquartered in German major cities per the requirements of the clients.

BridgeWest offers advice on how open a company in Germany, including virtual office services, opening of bank accounts and accounting services.