Germany is a hub for businesses looking to expand into the European market; One way to establish a presence in the country is by buying a shelf company, also known as a “Mantelgesellschaft” in German. This article will guide you through the process of buying a shelf company in Germany and changing its business activity.
What is a Shelf Company?
A shelf company is a pre-registered company that has not conducted any business activities. It is essentially a company that has been set up and left “on the shelf” until it is sold to a new owner. Shelf companies are often used by businesses looking to establish a presence in Germany quickly, as they can be purchased and activated rapidly.
Benefits of Buying a Shelf Company in Germany
- Quick Establishment: Buying a shelf company allows you to establish a presence in Germany quickly, as the company is already registered.
- Reduced Administrative Burden: The company is already set up, so you won’t have to deal with the initial administrative tasks.
- Easier Financing: A shelf company with a clean financial history can make it easier to secure financing from banks and other lenders.
Changing the Business Activity of a Shelf Company in Germany
When you buy a shelf company in Germany, it will typically have a standard business activity listed in its articles of association. To change the business activity, you will need to amend the articles of association and file the changes with the commercial register (Handelsregister).
Steps to Change the Business Activity
- Review the Company’s Articles of Association: Check the company’s current articles of association to see if they need to be amended.
- Prepare a Resolution: Prepare a resolution to amend the articles of association, which must be signed by the shareholders.
- Notarize the Resolution: The resolution must be notarized by a German notary.
- File the Changes: File the amended articles of association with the commercial register.
Buying a shelf company in Germany can be a convenient way to establish a presence in the country. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can change the business activity of the company and start operating in Germany. It is recommended that you seek professional advice from a German lawyer or tax advisor to ensure a smooth process.
This article provides a clear and concise guide on buying a shelf company in Germany and changing its business activity, making it a valuable resource for businesses looking to expand into the European market.
The step-by-step process outlined in the article for changing the business activity of a shelf company is particularly helpful, as it highlights the importance of notarizing the resolution and filing the changes with the commercial register.