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They tinker with innovations on a daily basis — the foundation for the success of the company. Their efforts are celebrated every year: Carl Zeiss has honored its employees with Innovation Awards since 2003. The best researchers and developers receive the coveted prize in six categories for their outstanding ideas.

One team increased resolution in lithography — an accomplishment that leads to more powerful computer chips. Another team discovered an entirely new field for the INTRABEAM medical system, an intraoperative radiation system that is already being successfully used in the treatment of breast cancer. These are just two exciting examples of the work that goes on daily at Carl Zeiss.

To put this innovative power into perspective: Carl Zeiss employees applied for around 350 patents during the last fiscal year. This is no coincidence. The company invests an above-average amount into research and development: 284 million euros or 14 percent of revenues — even during times of crisis there are no cutbacks here.

June 30, 2010