FDP New Year's reception: criticism and new ideas for crafts!

FDP New Year's reception: criticism and new ideas for crafts!

Last Saturday the New Year's reception of the FDP district association Weilheim-Schongau took place in Seeshaupt. There was not only a look back at the previous year, but also sharp analyzes of the current political situation in Germany. Chairwoman Judith Haberkorn expressed concern and even described the country as a “banana republic”. She warned against a path to socialism and highlighted how much bureaucracy is putting a strain on family businesses and smaller companies.

A central topic that evening was the need to accelerate digital processes in the Weilheim district office. Haberkorn called for the introduction of a self-service terminal to reduce administrative work. What was particularly important to her was the creation of equal living conditions in town and country.

Modern mobility and craftsmanship

Clemens Deyerling, Managing Director of “Omobi”, supplemented the discussion with thoughts on modern mobility solutions that are becoming particularly important in rural areas. He presented an innovative, digital on-demand bus system that is already working successfully in several Upper Bavarian communities and includes, among other things, the Blaue Land bus, which is a further development of the omobi local bus in Murnau.

Another highlight of the evening was the lecture by Nicole Pfeffer, who presented her book “Zukunftsmacher Handwerk”. The trained chef with a part-time business degree dispelled common myths about the craft and explained how you can get young people interested in this professional area. The shortage of qualified specialists is currently becoming increasingly noticeable, particularly in the skilled trades. According to the Federal Employment Agency, one in three skilled trades is a shortage occupation, and the situation is exacerbated by the fact that 38% of training positions in the skilled trades are unfilled.

Shortage of skilled workers and digitalization

The challenges of the craft are diverse. A report from the Federal Employment Agency shows that 130,000 jobs were registered in the skilled trades in August 2024, which means a decline of 6% compared to the same month last year. Occupations such as plant mechanics, energy technology, and construction and expansion occupations are particularly affected. However, there is also good news: the promotion of training places is being promoted and there is support from employment and youth employment agencies.

Digitalization plays a central role in this, as a study by Bitkom shows. Many craft businesses see the opportunities that arise from digital technologies, but are struggling with uncertainties and high costs. Adaptation to new customer needs and the use of artificial intelligence could provide additional impetus. This digital transformation will also be crucial in sustainably combating the shortage of skilled workers and increasing the attractiveness of the skilled trades.

In view of these complex issues, it is clear: the craft sector needs innovative approaches and a good hand in order to master the challenges of the future. Only by bundling a digital strategy and qualified training can we succeed in strengthening this important economic sector and keeping it attractive for future generations.

Further information on the challenges in the trades and digital transformation can be found in the reports from District messengers, Employment agency and Bitkom.