VEB, or "Volkseigener Betrieb," was a type of state-owned enterprise in the former East Germany. Established after World War II, these businesses were part of the socialist economic system, where the government controlled production and distribution. VEBs operated in various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and services, aiming to meet the needs of the population. After the reunification of Germany in 1990, many VEBs faced challenges due to competition and market changes. Some were privatized, while others were closed or restructured. The legacy of VEBs remains a significant aspect of German history and the transition from a planned economy to a market economy.