The Commercial register to the official place where German Corporations are legally registered and…read morethus established as entities. Small single tradesmen may waive the registration, however limited companies, shareholding companies, co-operative companies must by law be registered to become a legal entity.
Every entity must have a unique name, that also clearly states the legal form of the entity, e.g. "e.K. = Einzelkaufman = sole trademan)
The entries are subject to a so-called public belief, which means that third party can officially rely on the entries, even if they are wrong, unless it is obvious that such entries must be incorrect.
Everybody can get an extract from the register against payment. meanwhile an online service is established, that offer an immidiate search and print function. Registration will be required, language is German only.