"Right to repair": a strong signal and valuable message for the trades.

The law promoting the repair of goods passed the Bundesrat (Federal Council) on July 10, 2026. The law transposes the EU directive into national law and is scheduled to come into force on July 31 for most purchase contracts concluded from the end of July 2026 onwards. Kurt Krautscheid, President of the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts, comments on the new "right to repair".

Smart meter rollout should be faster

The German government wants to accelerate the smart meter rollout in Germany and implement it two years earlier than previously planned. The ZVEH (Central Association of German Electrical and Information Technology Trades) welcomes this, but warns against shifting obligations from metering point operators to customers.

Reforestation of forests to preserve drinking water

Only a healthy, green forest can ensure a balanced water supply. However, persistently high temperatures and drought are currently putting forests under pressure. Since water is an essential source of life, Krombacher supports the preservation of stable forests with a large-scale reforestation program.

The cooperation between Koblenz University of Applied Sciences and the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts is the focus of an online information event. (Photo: © newagecinema/123RF.com)

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Work-integrated studies in the skilled trades

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Chamber of Crafts Koblenz

May 2026

Businesses from northern Rhineland-Palatinate will receive information about the pathways and opportunities of dual studies at an online event on May 21st.

The integration of vocational and academic education is the focus of a collaboration between Koblenz University of Applied Sciences and the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts (HwK). Both institutions are developing new, closely integrated educational programs designed to sustainably promote the region as a hub for business, innovation, and education. At the heart of the collaboration is a dual study program that combines vocational training in a skilled trade with university studies, taking into account the specific characteristics of craft businesses. The program will also enable students to obtain a master craftsman's qualification.

Craft businesses benefit in several ways from offering such programs. Besides attracting motivated applicants with a high school diploma, the primary focus is on retaining high-performing skilled workers from the start of their apprenticeships, as well as enhancing the company's image.

Background: Information eventBackground On Thursday, May 21st, there will be an online information event starting at 15 pm, which is aimed particularly at craft businesses regarding dual training.
Participation Participation in the online event on May 21st from 15 pm is possible via this link.
Contact Further information about dual studies is available from Jens Fiedermann at the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts, Tel. 0261 398351, Email: jens.fiedermann@hwk-koblenz.de.

DHB now also digital!Simply click here and register for the digital DHB!Further news from the district of the Koblenz Chamber of Crafts

Text: Koblenz Chamber of Crafts / handwerksblatt.de

Training consensus: Securing skilled workers is the priority

Representatives of the North Rhine-Westphalia training consensus have called for a commitment to securing skilled workers through vocational training. They emphasize that it remains a crucial pillar for economic success, social cohesion, and democratic stability.

April 2026

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Chamber of Crafts and Trades of Saarland

News about technician training

A lack of professional experience has previously made direct entry into technician training impossible. The required one year of relevant professional experience is no longer applicable.

April 2026

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Chamber of Crafts and Trades of Saarland

The Chamber of Skilled Crafts (HWK) is calling for stronger political prioritization of dual vocational training.

On the occasion of the Federal Government's vocational training report, Helmut Zimmer, President of the Saarland Chamber of Skilled Crafts (HWK), and Hans-Ulrich Thalhofer, Deputy Managing Director, comment on the current situation of dual vocational training in Saarland.

May 2026

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Trier Chamber of Crafts

Technically excellent, but under pressure from a business perspective?

The business advisory service of the Trier Chamber of Skilled Crafts provides clarity – through a free and confidential consultation.

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Operations management

A championship title is worth as much as a bachelor's degree.

Where skilled workers are in short supply, good pay is the deciding factor. A study by the LFI reveals the true potential of the skilled trades. Those who pay well and offer a pleasant working environment have the advantage.

May 2026

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