Where the period to the mid 1970s was characterised by mining and steel making, economic development today is largely supported by modern industrial companies and services. Since the mid 1980s a clear trend has seen the service sector establish itself as the largest employer. Despite this, modern, competitive manufacturing companies continue to generate 50 percent of local turnover - with an export share that is unusually high, even by the standards of the region: well over 50%.

Herne features a wide range of attractive commercial properties, providing a broad scope for entrepreneurial initiative. For example, at the Schloss Grimberg site space is currently being created for logistics companies, services and SMEs. With the intermunicipal Last Mile Logistics Network project, launched by the towns of Gelsenkirchen, Herne and Herten, a new network is being created for innovative products and services on the "last mile", including the 170-hectare Last Mile logistics park. A wide range of properties at competitive rates include tailor-made premises for all types of businesses. In recent years, the Herne Business Development Agency’s innovation and industrial centres (IGZ Herne) have proved to be successful starting points for commercial businesses and future-oriented companies. Joint facilities and a wide range of information and advisory services support the centres’ users during their start-up and expansion phases.