Energy-intensive and medium-sized - a discontinued model?
The German foundry industry is part of the energy-intensive SME sector - a combination that is not easy in times of transformation and a shortage of skilled workers. "We have become visible - because we need a lot of energy. And that is suddenly a very bad thing," explained BDG President Clemens Küpper in his opening speech.
Excessive reporting obligations, uncertain framework conditions, high energy prices and worries about recruiting new staff are a serious burden for many companies. The BDG President also criticized the political situation in Germany, which is contributing to the difficult conditions.
The hurdles in economic policy
Carolin Schenuit, Green Budget Germany - Forum Ökologisch-Soziale Marktwirtschaft (FÖS), also addressed the political framework conditions. Schenuit referred to the political inconsistency, the lack of awareness of SMEs and Germany's isolated position in European climate protection policy. As a result, she recommended a dual solution of targeted lobbying on the one hand and personal commitment in local politics on the other.Dr. Klaus Bauknecht: "If the car doesn't drive at all, I can't steer anything."
The Chief Economist of IKB Deutsche Industriebank AG, Dr. Klaus Bauknecht, is counting on an investment boost within the SME sector and predicted that this will solve some of the problems in the industry. However, according to Dr. Bauknecht, an investment boost is only conceivable with absolutely secure framework conditions.
Bertram Kawlath, Vice President VDMA and Managing Director of Schubert&Salzer, on the other hand, assessed the situation as an economic dip and sees light on the horizon. However, in the discussion with Philipp West, Luitpoldhütte, and Ronald Krug, AGCO, a commitment to casting in Germany and the demand for stable framework conditions and a common level playing field in Europe emerged.
From economic policy to skilled workers
The afternoon was dedicated to innovative approaches to recruiting. As part of this, the BDG awarded a prize to the winner of its trainee competition. Trainees from various foundries reported on their everyday lives in short vlogs on Tik Tok. The prize of 1,500 euros went to Lea Pugliese from STIHL.
In conclusion, there was a call for politicians to create the right framework conditions for companies in order to restore competitiveness.
