The skilled trades in Trier remain a stable anchor – that was the conclusion drawn by HGF Axel Bettendorf at the Trier Chamber of Skilled Crafts' autumn general meeting. (Photo: © Philine Günther)
Read aloud:
"The skilled trades in the Trier region remain an anchor of stability – resilient, responsible and supportive," said Managing Director Axel Bettendorf at the autumn general meeting.
Managing Director Axel Bettendorf referred to the current economic survey, in which over 80 percent of the surveyed craft businesses rated their situation as good or satisfactory. "In terms of sales and demand, things are going better for automotive and construction companies," said the Chamber of Skilled Crafts head, "and somewhat weaker in the food and healthcare sectors. Nevertheless, employment stability is very high." With regard to the political situation, Bettendorf criticized: "The skilled trades are footing the bill. We are more affected by rising non-wage labor costs than industry." President Bernd Elsen also hopes that politicians will give greater consideration to the interests of the skilled trades: "Our task is to create better framework conditions for the skilled trades. Bureaucracy is a major burden for tradespeople."
Elsen also highlighted the positive aspects of the year. For example, the 125th anniversary celebration of the Chamber of Skilled Crafts was so well received that an event in a similar format is now planned to take place every year: an exchange with a short program and plenty of time for networking.
Bettendorf highlighted the rising number of apprentices as a positive development. Bricklayers have seen a 25 percent increase, and carpenters an 18 percent rise. In the construction trades in general, the numbers are stable. Hairdressers and dental technicians have even recorded 45 percent more apprenticeships. He emphasized the need to communicate more effectively that skilled trades offer career prospects with lifelong opportunities. In addition to recruiting local youth, Bettendorf also welcomes young people from abroad. For example, almost one in five apprentices comes from Syria, Ukraine, or Afghanistan.
The consistently high number of apprentices in the construction trades has long necessitated an expansion of the construction campus in Kenn. Renovation plans are in place to bring the campus into compliance with the new training regulations. Instruction according to the new apprenticeship curriculum is scheduled to begin on August 1, 2026.
The planned levy for inter-company apprentice training is currently being examined by an auditor. The results will be announced at the next general meeting. Elsen is confident: "The inter-company training levy will be implemented." The levy is intended to provide training companies with financial compensation for their training services.
Managing Director Matthias Schwalbach presented a reform agenda for a vote. Together with the Trier Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), an 11-point agenda was developed, addressed to the city of Trier. Plans are also in place to extend these demands to other municipalities. The Chamber of Skilled Crafts (HWK) and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce intend to present a united front as a powerful economic force, thereby increasing their influence with policymakers and bringing their demands to the public's attention.
A key issue is the targeted and efficient use of the special infrastructure fund, which should be used, for example, for school renovations. Another point concerns the bollards within the framework of the security concept: Schwalbach stated that a comprehensive delivery and loading zone concept is needed, one that also takes into account the needs of local businesses. Furthermore, the administrative structure must become more business-friendly. The assembly unanimously adopted the document.
Furthermore, the General Assembly, together with the Employers' Association of Skilled Crafts, the State Association of District Craftsmen's Associations, and the Working Group of Chambers of Skilled Crafts in Rhineland-Palatinate, adopted a position paper outlining demands for the 2026 state elections. The goals are improved framework conditions for skilled crafts, a reduction in bureaucracy, and an education initiative to attract skilled workers. In addition, the paper calls for boosting housing construction, modernizing infrastructure, and creating investment opportunities for municipalities.
DHB now also digital!Simply click here and register for the digital DHB!Further news from the district of the Chamber of Crafts Trier
Newsletter
Write a comment