The historical archive is the BDI’s long-term memory. At present the archive contains almost a thousand metres of shelving dedicated to documents relating to the history of German industry’s umbrella association. From industry's perspective they primarily document the economic and political-historical context at national and international level.

Files from the BDI management’s executive and specialist departments constitute the core of the BDI archive. It also contains important photos, films, audio recordings and publications from the BDI’s more than sixty years of history.

Archival documents which have already been released for use can be viewed in the BDI archive after prior appointment.

Insights into the Historical Archive