Kärcher CEO Warns Europe Faces ‘Perfect Storm’ and Calls for Economic Reforms

Kärcher CEO Hartmut Jenner says Europe and Germany face a “perfect storm” from geopolitical tensions, unpredictable U.S. trade policy and China’s technological advance. He warns tariffs and trade barriers threaten exporters, while subsidies and currency policies create unfair competition. Jenner also points to Europe’s high energy and labour costs, excessive regulation and bureaucracy. He calls for simpler rules, stronger incentives for investment and a more pragmatic government approach, arguing Germany’s forecast growth of 1.3% relies on public spending and debt.