36氪·2025-10-29 00:16Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the decline of "hidden champions" in Germany and Japan, highlighting the rise of Chinese companies as new leaders in the global industrial landscape. Group 1: Definition and Characteristics of Hidden Champions - The term "hidden champions" refers to small and medium-sized enterprises that dominate niche markets but remain largely unknown to the public. These companies typically have a global market share in the top two positions and annual sales below $10 billion, although the criteria have been relaxed to include those with sales under $50 billion [5][7]. - As of 2023, there are 3,406 hidden champions globally, with Germany accounting for 1,573, nearly half of the total [7][11]. Group 2: Current State of Hidden Champions - The article notes that the myth of hidden champions is fading as the high-end industrial supply chain in China undergoes comprehensive upgrades [6]. - Germany's manufacturing sector, particularly the automotive industry, is experiencing a systemic decline, with a reported 80% increase in bankruptcies since 2021 [22][25]. Group 3: Economic Challenges in Germany - Germany's GDP fell by 0.2% last year, marking its second consecutive year of decline, a rare occurrence since 1950 [21]. - Major automotive companies, including Bosch and Volkswagen, are planning significant layoffs, with Bosch alone cutting 13,000 jobs [22][24]. Group 4: Comparison with Chinese Companies - While hidden champions in Germany and Japan are declining, Chinese companies are rapidly emerging as new industrial leaders, particularly in advanced manufacturing and digital technology [41]. - China has cultivated over 14,000 specialized small and medium-sized enterprises, with the number of hidden champions increasing from about 100 to 300 in the past five years [41]. Group 5: Future Outlook - The article suggests that the traditional manufacturing models of Germany and Japan are becoming obsolete, as they struggle with digital transformation and innovation [33][35]. - In contrast, China's hidden champions are gaining strength and represent significant future growth potential, indicating a shift in the global industrial landscape [41][43].