Global instability is nothing new, but the past few years have seen numerous flashpoints come to the fore around the world. This leaves many companies in a quandary over whether to stay in an unsettled location, how to insure themselves, and how to keep the locals on side should they choose to stay put. 

A vibrant city at the heart of Europe, awash with strong transport links, a young and educated workforce and world-renowned cultural events, Cologne is an easy sell to outsiders. However, local officials are not resting on their laurels when it comes to ensuring that businesses from a multitude of sectors are aware of the city's many assets.

Cologne's status as a hub for industries across myriad sectors is in no small part down to its excellent road, rail, river and air links, which put the rest of Europe within easy reach.

Cologne's status as a 'place to be' for young people gives the city an advantage when it comes to digital and hi-tech industries, a fact not lost on the likes of Electronic Arts, IBM and Microsoft, which are located within the city.

Cologne's reputation as a strong trade destination dates back for centuries, but more recently the city has made its name through its hosting of trade fairs and conferences at its huge Koelnmesse exhibition centre.

The continued presence of other leading aerospace and aviation companies, close proximity to three large airports and close links with educational establishments combine to give Cologne confidence that its aerospace sector can rise above the loss of Lufthansa’s headquarters. 

Iceland's cool climate has helped the country carve a niche as one of the world's most cost-effective destinations for data centres. Now, it is looking to exploit its other quirks – such as its near-complete reliance on renewable energy – to attract more foreign investment.