Economic Slowdown Eases Shortage of Skilled Workers in Germany

Companies in Germany are currently feeling the shortage of skilled workers somewhat less. 28.3% of companies are getting too few qualified workers, down from 31.9% in October. “The weak economy is currently dampening demand for qualified workers, which means that the shortage of skilled workers is being felt somewhat less acutely,” says ifo researcher Klaus Wohlrabe, but at the same time warns: “Demographic change remains a major challenge. In the long term, the shortage of skilled workers will increase again.”

In some sectors, the shortage of skilled workers remains pronounced, for example among service providers: 35.1% have difficulties finding skilled workers. In legal and tax consultancy and auditing, around 75% of companies are unable to find enough qualified staff. Recruitment and temporary employment agencies are also affected: 62%. The figure in the accommodation Industry is around 42%.

Despite cautious and in some cases restrictive personnel planning, around 18% of companies in industry are still unable to find enough skilled workers. The situation is particularly tense in the food industry (27%), mechanical engineering (23%), and among furniture manufacturers (23%).

The shortage of skilled workers can also still be felt in retail and construction, with just over a fifth of companies reporting difficulties in filling qualified positions.