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.

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.

The rapid growth of Alvogen is impressive by any standards, but for a company operating in the ever-changing pharmaceuticals market it is even more remarkable. The secret of Alvogen's success lies in its decision to expand and diversify its company function, its product line and its geographical markets.

The decline of once-dominant telecommunications giant Nokia had grim repercussions for the Finnish city of Tampere, in which it employed 4000 people at its peak. However, with an educated, highly skilled workforce, and its innovative streak still fully intact, Tampere is filling the 'Nokia gap' with a number of exciting projects.

The head of Allegheny Technologies Inc has seen his company spread its wings to all corners of the globe, but he is happy that the US commitment to being a leading manufacturing region means his home base remains an advantageous place to do business.

Like many locations, Louisiana decided to bet on the tech sector as an engine of future economic growth. And, while many other states with similar ambitions have failed, Louisiana has already succeeded in attracting some big tech names.

The Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for tourists, and is rising in prominence as a finance and business hub for the south-east Asia region. Barbara Njau charts the city's progress.