From Gütersloh into the world

Bertelsmann is an international media company. We embrace our corporate responsibility in the more than 50 countries where we have operations. At the same time we are aware of our tradition and roots: Bertelsmann was founded in 1835 in Gütersloh, where the nucleus of many of our businesses lies. Even today, our company headquarters still has a great significance for us. Approximately 11,000 people work for Bertelsmann companies in Gütersloh and the surrounding area, which is more than a tenth of all the company’s employees. But that’s not the only reason we feel strong ties to our hometown. Gütersloh and Bertelsmann belong together. This is where we found the conditions that nurtured our growth in the past – and where we still do. So we feel it is only natural for us to give back to the community as a “good neighbor.” Many of our initiatives take place in and around Gütersloh, and aim to make it an even better place to live for its residents through youth, cultural, educational and environmental projects.