What Are the Company Designations in English?

Translating company names and legal forms correctly is crucial for international business success. This is particularly important for companies operating in the English-speaking market. In this article, we explain the various German company designations and their British and US equivalents.

German company designations and their English equivalents

Sole trader (Einzelunternehmen)

A sole trader business, also known as an “Einzelkaufmann”, is the simplest form of business. The English designation for this is “Sole Proprietorship”.

Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH)

The Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung is one of the most common company forms in Germany. The English equivalent is “Limited Liability Company (LLC)”. In the USA, “LLC” is used as well.

Aktiengesellschaft (AG)

An Aktiengesellschaft is a company limited by shares whose interests are traded in the form of shares. The English designation is “Public Limited Company (PLC)” in the United Kingdom and “Corporation (Corp.)” in the USA.

Kommanditgesellschaft (KG)

A Kommanditgesellschaft is a partnership in which at least one partner has unlimited liability while the others are liable only up to the amount of their contribution. The English designation is “Limited Partnership (LP)”. This term is used in both the United Kingdom and the USA.

Offene Handelsgesellschaft (OHG)

An offene Handelsgesellschaft is a partnership in which all partners have unlimited liability. The English equivalent is “General Partnership (GP)”, a designation that is likewise commonly used in the USA.

Translating company designations correctly is essential for international business dealings. A precise understanding of the various company forms and their English equivalents can help businesses avoid misunderstandings and present themselves professionally. Use these translations as a reference to ensure that your company names and legal forms are communicated clearly and correctly.

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