German industrial production jumped more than expected in August, posting its biggest monthly increase in more than six years.
Today's figures are a further sign that Europe's biggest economy is set for solid growth in the third quarter.
Industrial output increased by 2.6% on the month in August after edging down by 0.1% in July, data from the Economy Ministry showed.
That was the strongest monthly gain since July 2011 and easily beat expectations in a Reuters poll for a 0.7% rise, surpassing even the most optimistic estimate.
A breakdown of the data showed factories churned out more intermediate goods, capital goods and consumer goods in August. Energy output also rose while construction activity fell.
The German ministry said industrial production had gained momentum since the start of the year.
"The good business morale and the positive development in industrial orders point to a continuation of the solid industrial upswing," it said.
Data published on Friday showed that strong foreign demand, especially from clients outside the euro zone, drove a bigger than expected jump in industrial orders in August.
