"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.

(Photo: © filmfoto/123RF.com)

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Minimum wage rises to 8,84 euros

The most important facts about the minimum wage - Theme specials

October 2016

It's now official: The minimum wage will increase from €8,50 to €8,84 on January 1, 2017. The Federal Cabinet has approved this.

This article is part of the special topic The most important facts about the minimum wage

The statutory minimum wage will increase to €8,84 on January 1, 2017. The Federal Cabinet is thus following the decision of the Minimum Wage Commission at the end of June.

The Minimum Wage Commission based its decision on collective bargaining developments, it is stated. The Minimum Wage Act stipulates that the commission decides on adjustments to the minimum wage every two years, with the first decision being made by June 30, 2016. It is also to continuously evaluate the effects of the minimum wage and report to the government every two years. The law as a whole will be reviewed in 2020.

Text: Kirsten Freund / handwerksblatt.de

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

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Applications for admission to the journeyman and final examinations in winter 2026/2027 must be received by the Chamber of Skilled Crafts and Trades (HWK) no later than August 28th.

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Operations management

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Qonto Starter: Business account for solo self-employed individuals

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