OpenAI Opens Munich Office to Strengthen German Tech Ties

On May 22, 2025, OpenAI launched its first German office in Munich, cementing its commitment to Europe by establishing a direct presence in its largest regional market. Germany now leads OpenAI’s user base in Europe, and ranks among the top three globally for paying ChatGPT users and API developers outside the U.S.

The Munich office will directly support clients ranging from established corporations like Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe and Zalando, to mid-sized firms such as KOSTAL and Viessmann. Startups like Parloa and Choco also rely on OpenAI’s tools. Academic institutions, including WHU and the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, continue to incorporate OpenAI systems in their research and teaching.

Also read: OpenAI Quietly Updates Codex Models with o3, o4 Mini Without Much Explanation

OpenAI’s team in Germany will include machine learning and go-to-market specialists. CEO Sam Altman and CTO Mira Murati confirmed their plans to build local talent and invest in regional expertise. The company also emphasized its ongoing efforts to collaborate with European regulators on AI safety and policy.

Bavaria’s State Minister for Digital Affairs, Dr. Fabian Mehring, welcomed the move. He called it a milestone for Munich’s growing influence as a tech center and praised OpenAI’s role in shaping the next generation of digital tools.