There is a great shortage of staff in service providers, but less so in industry, construction and trade, because the economy is weakening.
From the companies’ point of view, the shortage of skilled workers has decreased somewhat. According to the latest ifo economic survey, almost 34 percent of companies are unable to find enough qualified workers, compared to 35 percent in April. “The weakening economy is currently also reducing the demand for skilled workers,” says ifo expert Klaus Wohlrabe.
In industry, one in four companies reported personnel problems, as did those in retail and the construction industry. Service providers are more severely affected. In logistics, almost two thirds of companies are looking for suitable applicants. The situation is similar for personnel and temporary employment agencies, legal and tax consultants and auditors.
The German economy is shrinking, with gross domestic product falling by 0.1 percent in the second quarter. The number of unemployed rose to 2.8 million in July; the number of vacant jobs fell to 703,000, according to the Federal Employment Agency. Due to demographic change, however, the shortage of skilled workers will be permanent and will worsen again, says Wohlrabe.
Source: Stern
