Photo: © MWIDE/AA Chamber of Skilled Crafts of Saarland | September 2026 HWK is a partner in the "Alliance for Circular Construction" The Saarland focuses on resource-efficient and economical construction.
Photo: © Alexander Weiß Chamber of Skilled Crafts of Saarland | September 2026 Crafts Day on 17 September This year's "Day of Crafts" will take place on September 17th at Saarbrücken Castle Square. The focus will be on career guidance.
Photo: © Günter Gutherl GmbH Chamber of Skilled Crafts of Saarland | September 2026 Certificate of honor for 80 years of craft history Günter Gutherl GmbH from Lebach is celebrating an impressive 80-year company history this year.
Photo: © piksel/123RF.com Chamber of Skilled Crafts of Saarland | September 2026 Event on the new packaging regulation The new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) has been in force since August 12, 2026 – and directly affects many craft businesses.
Photo: © "Success Factor Family"/ Thomas Rafalzyk Operations Management | September 2026 Germany's most family-friendly businesses: Crafts sector leads the way These are the most family-friendly companies in Germany: The cleaning company Dreer, interior design Schwarzmeier, Benkert roof greening and the agricultural technology company Thome-Bormann.
Photo: © stylephotographs/123RF.com Operations Management | September 2026 EU contracts: Awarding of contracts in specific and partial lots remains possible for the time being. The EU wants to simplify public procurement. Awarding contracts via specialized lots and partial lots will remain possible for the time being. The German Confederation of Skilled Crafts had strongly advocated for this.
Photo: © Tyler Olson/123RF.com Operations Management | September 2026 Decline in sales in the skilled trades in the second quarter of 2026 Sales in the skilled trades are declining. Almost all trades are affected. According to the Federal Statistical Office, the number of employees has also decreased slightly overall – most significantly among bakers, butchers, and confectioners.
Photo: © www.amh-online.de Operations Management | September 2026 Building cleaners: IG BAU demands two euros more per hour The first round of wage negotiations in the building cleaning sector ended without an agreement. Employees are demanding a 13 percent pay increase, while employers cite the difficult economic situation.
Photo: © domenicogelermo/123RF.com Crafts policy | September 2026 Loss of skills jeopardizes career entry Following the poor results of the latest PISA study, the skilled trades sector is appealing to the federal and state governments to make proven support programs permanent. School education must lay a solid foundation for starting a career.
Photo: © 1markim/123RF.com Crafts policy | September 2026 Packaging Ordinance: Tradespeople want practical rules As the consultation period for the implementing act on extended producer responsibility of the EU Packaging Regulation comes to an end, the ZDH is advocating for changes to avoid overburdening businesses.
Photo: © Алексей_Кириллов/123RF.com Crafts policy | September 2026 ZDH calls for reforms with "record impact" The German government is planning record spending in its draft budget for next year. The skilled trades sector continues to demand structural reforms. They argue that simply increasing funding will not guarantee the competitiveness of the German economy.
Photo: © milanl/123RF.com Crafts policy | September 2026 Location factors for craft businesses: Affordable premises in Brandenburg Affordable workshops, storage facilities, and commercial spaces are a crucial factor for craft businesses when choosing a location. The situation varies considerably across Brandenburg.
Photo: © Dacia Electric drives | September 2026 The new Dacia Spring: Affordable electric mobility for you In its new iteration, the Dacia Spring has only retained the name of its predecessor. It has become longer and wider – a tribute to customer wishes.
Photo: © Martin Meiners/VWN Electric drives | September 2026 Electric vans 2026: Cargo space and payload determine purchase decision Electric vans are becoming increasingly attractive to tradespeople. However, range and price are not the only deciding factors when purchasing one: A look at trends and electric vans on the German market.
Photo: © Messe Düsseldorf/ctillmann Caravanning | September 2026 Caravan Salon 2026: Experience the future of caravanning The Caravan Salon 2026, taking place in Düsseldorf from August 28th to September 6th, showcases the full spectrum of mobile travel – from new vehicles to off-road and roof tent trends.
Photo: © GDKE Joe from Ko Travel | September 2026 Ehrenbreitstein Cultural Centre: Experience the exhibition "Land of Creativity" For the first time, a permanent exhibition at the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress Cultural Centre focuses on the development of a country over a period of 200 years. Visitors encounter women and men who bring this historical development to life.
Photo: © DHB Travel | September 2026 Emilia-Romagna: The Art of Living Well The Marconi Express takes you from Bologna Airport to the train station in the capital of Emilia-Romagna in seven minutes. From there, a delightful cultural journey begins with Trenitalia Tper trains.
Photo: © Cologne Carnival Committee/Costa Belibasakis Society | September 2026 Cologne's Carnival Triumvirate: Prince Marius I is a true craftsman Cologne has a new triumvirate: Prince Marius I, Farmer Alex, and Maiden Johanna were presented to the public for the first time at the Cologne Chamber of Skilled Crafts' MasterCampus. The skilled trades wish them an unforgettable carnival season.
Photo: © The Crafts Image campaign: Join us! | September 2026 Paralympic star Markus Rehm: New face of the crafts campaign Markus Rehm is a Paralympic champion, an orthopaedic mechanic, and one of four new ambassadors for the nationwide campaign of the skilled trades: "Career with feeling".
Photo: © kozaksasha/123RF.com Digital Craftsmanship | September 2026 Smart surveillance with energy-autonomous cameras Industry 4.0: Monitoring construction sites without a power supply is a challenge for businesses. The solution lies in special cameras powered by solar or fuel cell technology, enabling them to operate independently of energy sources around the clock.
Photo: © cocon Column: “Workbench & Change” | September 2026 When the tail wags the dog The new edition of the bi-weekly column "Workbench + Change" deals with the questionable separation between the digital and real worlds.
Photo: © Fotostudio Eidens-Holl /ISB Employer Branding: Turn your craft business into a brand | September 2026 Attractive employers in Rhineland-Palatinate: These are the award winners Minister of Economic Affairs Michael Ebling has awarded eight companies the title of "Attractive Employers Rhineland-Palatinate 2026," including four craft businesses. These companies combine innovation with a modern corporate culture and a strong focus on employees.
Photo: © trueffelpix/123RF.com Theme specials Employer Branding: Make your craft business a brand Marketing is no longer just about acquiring customers, but also about attracting young talent and skilled workers. This is where skilled tradespeople who have a strong brand locally or even beyond the region excel. Employer branding is the technical term for this.
Photo: © Andriy Popov/123RF.com Theme specials E-invoicing: Tips for craft businesses The public sector has been requiring it for some time, and since January 1, 2025, it has also been mandatory in the B2B sector: e-invoicing! Companies must be able to receive e-invoices. Significant changes are coming in 2027 and 2028.
Photo: © Jens Brüggemann/123RF.com Theme specials Cash register management: What do businesses need to pay attention to? Fraud at cash registers is to be brought to an end. Strong encryption (TSE) and cash register audits are intended to ensure everything is above board. Mandatory cash register use is also coming soon.
Photo: © yuttana jeenamool/123RF.com Theme specials Offensive against illegal work Customs is taking decisive action against illegal work. Craftsmen and tradesmen are suffering from the shadow economy. However, illicit income arrangements are illegal, and in the worst case scenario, entrepreneurs not only get nothing, but also face tax and criminal proceedings.
Photo: © ostill/123RF.com Theme specials Work accidents and their consequences A workplace accident is one of the last things you want to happen in your company. And when it does happen, many questions need to be answered. What should you do in an emergency? Who is liable? Read more here!
Photo: © Andriy Popov/123RF.com Theme specials Repair instead of throwing away Repairing broken washing machines, dishwashers, or smartphones protects the environment and saves customers money. In Saxony and some municipalities, there is even a subsidy available if the repair is carried out by a qualified tradesperson.
Photo: © rcclassenlayouts/123RF.com Theme specials Trade fairs for the craft industry Whether it's an international trade fair or a small local trade show, trade fairs bring people together and are one of the most successful marketing tools. We compile a summary of trade fair dates, marketing tips, and interviews related to the skilled trades industry for you.
Photo: © Sira Jantararungsan/123RF.com Theme specials Occupational safety in the company Safety at work depends on many factors. In our special issue, we inform you about the latest trends and interesting innovations in occupational health and safety, and workwear.
Photo: © Olena Kachmar/123RF.com Theme specials New tools for the trade Digitalization, automation, and sustainability are driving the tool market. On handwerksblatt, we provide you with an overview of new tools that will make your everyday work easier.
Photo: © cocon Theme specials Column: "Workbench & Change" Read the new column "Workbench & Change" every two weeks for inspiration and food for thought on how entrepreneurs want to position their craft for the future in terms of communication and digital technology.
Photo: © Verlagsanstalt Handwerk Theme specials FounderNavi – for founders and young companies The FounderNavi helps young companies to identify problems early on and to get the company back on track with the appropriate measures.
Photo: © Dmitry Kalinovsky/123RF.com Theme specials Workwear: How to dress correctly Whether on the construction site or in the factory – for hands, body, or feet: It's essential that workwear fits well, is comfortable, and durable. Read about the latest trends and news here.
Photo: © kzenon/123RF.com Theme specials Current building law Whether it's defect rectification, notices of concern, or VOB/B (German Construction Contract Procedures, Part B): Construction law is complex and affects many trades. We provide an overview of current case law and legislative changes.
Photo: © Stephen Coburn/123RF.com Theme specials Acceptance: pivotal point for craftsmen’s rights In terms of contract law, nothing is more important for tradespeople than the acceptance of their own work. This is when the warranty period begins, for example, and the work fee is due from this date.
Photo: © Ilya Andriyanov/123RF.com Theme specials Record working hours - but how? According to the European Court of Justice and the Federal Labor Court, employers are obliged to record the working hours of their employees – and they do so today, even though the German law on this is still being coordinated within the government.
Photo: © WHKT/Rolf Goebels Theme specials Volunteering is a matter of honor Being able to make a difference and help shape things. Being with others and learning something along the way: Hardly any other profession has as many volunteers as the skilled trades. This special feature explores what motivates them and what volunteering gives back.
Photo: © Olena Yakobchuk/123RF.com Theme specials Tax bonus for tradesmen's invoices: What you should know The tax break for home improvement projects is on the federal government's list of things to be cut. Customers can still deduct home improvement expenses from their taxes if they follow certain rules. Private customers can save up to €1.200 per year this way.
Photo: © Dimitriy Schironosov/123RF.com Theme specials Interesting competitions for craftsmen Business competitions are fun and a good PR tool. Participation requires one thing above all: time. We've compiled a list of interesting and current competitions for tradespeople.
Photo: © Sergey Nivens/123RF.com Theme specials Cyber attacks on craft businesses Craft businesses aren't safe when it comes to hacking, phishing, or data loss. If IT systems are hacked, the frustration and financial damage are significant. Here's how to protect yourself!
Photo: © jager/123RF.com Theme specials Important tips for GmbH managing directors The GmbH legal form is very popular among small businesses. Because, as the name suggests, the shareholders have limited liability. The most important rules and best tips for your success!
Photo: © Klaus Herzmann Theme specials women in crafts Women find ideal career opportunities, family-friendly businesses and careers with a future in the skilled trades: as entrepreneurs, master craftsmen, working entrepreneurs, journeymen or apprentices.
Photo: © ekarin/123RF.com Theme specials Hand over the business? Take over the business? Are you looking for a successor for your business? Would you like to take over a skilled trades business? We've compiled the most important tips for you!
Photo: © kebox/123RF.com Theme specials Digital Crafts The German Crafts Journal provides tips on how digitalization can be implemented in craft businesses.
Photo: © created by Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Handwerk with DALL-E 3 Theme specials Artificial Intelligence in Crafts – an assistant called KaI Artificial intelligence (AI) is a useful tool. The Mittelstand-Digital Zentrum Handwerk (SME Digital Center for Crafts) is conducting a series explaining how AI can assist businesses by relieving them of time-consuming tasks.
Photo: © fotogestoeber /123RF.com Theme specials Short-time work: What business owners need to know We answer the most important questions about the legal requirements for short-time work, how to apply, and vacation regulations.
Photo: © ostill/123RF.com Theme specials Termination: How to do it right Sometimes, terminating an employee is unavoidable. Terminating an employee for misconduct is difficult, but not impossible. What employers need to consider!
Photo: © Chris Willemsen/123RF.com Theme specials The most important facts about the minimum wage Who gets the minimum wage? How is an employee's salary calculated? Do collective bargaining agreements take precedence? We've compiled the most important facts about the minimum wage for you.
Photo: © Elnur/123RF.com Theme specials Customer’s right of withdrawal: a thumbscrew for tradesmen? For work contracts concluded outside of business premises, the consumer's right of withdrawal applies. Many a tradesman has already despaired over this. Read here what you need to keep in mind!
Photo: © Central Association of German Skilled Crafts Theme specials German Craft Skills Championship 2025 The German Crafts Championships honor the best young craftspeople from across Germany. We present the national winners for 2025.
Photo: © Fristads Theme specials Climate Savior Award Crafts What climate protection projects have you implemented in your craft business? The best projects will be honored this year with the Climate Savior Award for Crafts.
Photo: © The Crafts Theme specials Image campaign: Join in! Without skilled trades, it's impossible! Whether in the cityscape, in businesses, or online – the messages and images of the skilled trades image campaign are familiar throughout Germany. The new season has just started.
Photo: © sayfutdinov/123RF.com Theme specials Company party and company outing: What employers should pay attention to They create a positive atmosphere within the team and are an ideal opportunity to thank employees: company parties, Christmas celebrations, and company outings. But what do you need to consider from a tax perspective, and what does labor law say about them? An overview.
Photo: © lammeyer/123RF.com Theme specials Crafts and sports: an unbeatable team Whether at football, major events such as the Olympic Games or regional sports festivals, skilled tradespeople are involved everywhere: as athletes, fans and sponsors, as manufacturers of goals or as those who provide catering.
Photo: © Ian Allenden/123RF.com Theme specials Car repair shop and customer: A special relationship Germans' favorite toy deserves professional maintenance and repairs. This often leads to conflicts between customers and repairmen. Courts have already issued numerous rulings regarding rights and obligations. We present a selection.
Photo: © Liu Ming/123RF.com Theme specials Current data protection law The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) presents challenges for all businesses. We provide answers to your questions and practical tips for your everyday work.
Photo: © auremar//123RF.com Theme specials Starting your training The best way to train skilled workers is to train yourself. We'll show you what internships are available, how young people can be trained, what the probationary period entails, and who can help with problems.
Photo: © Gina Sanders/123RF.com Theme specials Invoices: This is what matters Whether on paper or by email, VAT requirements for invoices are strict. Even the smallest errors jeopardize input tax deduction. We'll tell you what you need to keep in mind, and what to do if the customer doesn't pay.
Photo: © uleiber/123RF.com Theme specials Diesel is a controversial topic Diesel car manufacturers are facing legal action for cheating software. There are also allegations against the Federal Motor Transport Authority.
Photo: © grafvision/123RF.com Theme specials Bureaucratic madness in the craft industry Bureaucracy is becoming an increasing burden in the skilled trades. The German Confederation of Skilled Crafts is making significant relief for businesses a priority.
Photo: © convisum/123RF.com Theme specials Flood disaster in Germany The flood disaster caused unprecedented damage in various parts of Germany in June 2021. Associations and chambers of commerce organized rapid and uncomplicated assistance.
Photo: © hafakot/123RF.com Theme specials Beware, address book rip-off! Dubious industry registries lure customers with official-looking letters or scam businesses with phone calls. How to successfully defend yourself.
Photo: © bee32/123RF.com Theme specials Property tax: What is changing and what owners are now facing The new property tax will take effect on January 1, 2025. All 36 million properties in Germany will be revalued as early as 2022. Read what landowners and property owners can expect.
Photo: © Andriy Popov/123RF.com Theme specials Holiday planning in the company When it comes to vacation days, friction often arises between employers and employees. However, there are clear rules. Answers to the most important questions about vacation entitlement.
Photo: © Antonio Diaz/123RF.com Theme specials This is how sustainable craftsmanship is Crafts embrace sustainability every day. Sustainable practices and resource conservation are not trends in the craft industry, but rather a matter of course. And this has been the case for centuries.
Photo: © alexkalina/123RF.com Theme specials Restructuring, protective shield or insolvency? The German economy is in crisis. Before insolvency occurs, there are ways to avoid bankruptcy. Read about the old and new regulations that apply here.
Photo: © nerthuz/123RF.com Theme specials Electromobility for trades and medium-sized businesses By incorporating electric vehicles into their fleets, small and medium-sized businesses and tradespeople are setting a precedent for sustainability. Electric vehicles also have lower operating costs and are also attractive from a tax perspective. An overview:
Photo: © adam121/123RF.com Theme specials Refugees: Welcome to the skilled trades! Many skilled trades entrepreneurs would like to give people with refugee and migrant backgrounds a chance, but aren't sure what to consider. We present companies and initiatives that have already gained experience.
Photo: © Jason Winter/123RF.com Theme specials Foreign trade: Working without borders To broaden a company's base and future-proof its position, it can be beneficial to become active in foreign markets. This allows for better mitigation against crises in the home country.
Photo: © rawpixel/123RF.com Theme specials Influencers want to stimulate interest in craftsmanship There are supposedly 100 influencers in the trades. Who are these people, and why do they want to inspire others about themselves and their profession? At the end of the interview, each tradesperson decides which influencer they want to interview next.
Photo: © auremar/123RF.com Theme specials Marketing – professional and successful! When it comes to advertising and marketing, tradespeople should act professionally. From successful flyers and effective sales letters to advertising on company vehicles: We've got your tips!
Photo: © Oleg Dudko/123RF.com Theme specials Banks and loans: What tradespeople need to know Nothing works without money – not even in the trades. But does it always have to be a traditional bank loan? Our articles on loans, bank negotiations, and financing alternatives.
Photo: © gajus/123RF.com Theme specials Writing employment references correctly For the supervisor, the employment reference is often a balancing act, because it must be truthful and benevolent at the same time.
Photo: © convisum/123RF.com Theme specials Good insurance coverage for tradesmen Occupational disability, business liability, legal protection: What insurance does a tradesperson need? Where can they find expert advice? Our special topic answers these questions.
Photo: © filadendron/iStock Advertising Theme specials Investing business assets in a contemporary manner You can put capital that no longer generates a decent return in call or fixed-term accounts to work for you with the potential for higher returns. Experts can help you invest your business assets in a modern way.
Photo: © Scanrail/123RF.com Theme specials Digital media in vocational training Digital media is still used rather hesitantly in schools and businesses. But the future belongs to Moodle, apps, and the like.
Photo: © MEV Verlag GmbH, Germany / MEV28035 Advertising Theme specials SIGNAL IDUNA offers tips on which car insurance is right for you and your car. Not all car insurance policies are created equal. A lot has improved in this area. If you haven't made any changes in a while, you should get an update as soon as possible. Now is the perfect time.
Photo: © olegdudko/123RF.com Theme specials Get started with your online shop! Online sales of goods are booming. Even craftspeople can easily expand their customer base and generate additional profits with their own online shop.
Photo: © stylephotographs/123RF.com Theme specials Retirement provision – what is worthwhile for tradespeople Fewer and fewer tradespeople are looking forward to retirement with confidence. With the level of statutory pensions declining, which form of pension provision offers the most benefits?
Photo: © Central Association of German Skilled Crafts Theme specials German Craft Skills Championship 2024 The German Crafts Championships honor the best young craftspeople from across Germany. We present the national winners for 2024.
Photo: © gettyimages/Maskot Advertising Theme specials Safe with owner default insurance What happens if you, as the managing business owner, are unavailable for an extended period? Can your business continue to operate?
Photo: © Piotr Adamowicz/123RF.com Theme specials Way clear for smart meters?! The German government wants to advance the digitalization of the energy transition. Intelligent electricity meters, so-called smart meters, play a central role in this. Recently, the expansion had stalled. These hurdles are now to be removed.
Photo: © stylephotographs/123RF.com Theme specials Don’t be afraid of warnings! The wave of cease-and-desist letters continues. Often, the senders are lawyers, who complain about errors on websites and demand large sums of money for reimbursement. How can tradespeople protect themselves?
Photo: © tiero/123RF.com Theme specials How Brussels interferes in everyday business The list is long: Brussels often interferes with everyday business operations with its laws and regulations. This also applies to small craft businesses. We have compiled the latest decisions for you.
Photo: © 017 PR Image Factory/123RF.com Theme specials Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality in the craft industry Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are key technologies for accessing the metaverse. AR and VR are already widely used in vocational training in the skilled trades, as numerous projects demonstrate.
Photo: © cookelma/123RF.com Theme specials Climate protection and energy saving in craft businesses Rising energy prices are affecting almost all sectors of the trades. More than ever, businesses are having to address the energy transition within their own companies.
Photo: © Andrij Popov/123RF.com Theme specials What you need to know as a boss in the trade Being a boss in a skilled trades business isn't an easy job. We've compiled the most important tips from handwerksblatt.de for you: from employment contracts to salary demands.
Photo: © william87/123RF.com Theme specials Gain work experience abroad Not only students can spend time abroad; there are also programs for apprentices, journeymen, master craftsmen, and trainers.
Photo: ©leaf/123RF.com Theme specials How to find good people for your company! Good employees are already in short supply in many trades today. What tradespeople can do to find and retain good people.
Photo: © ktsdesign/123RF.com Theme specials Robots for everyone Robots are moving into craft businesses. Humans can now work safely in close proximity with them. They provide excellent support for heavy, monotonous, or dangerous tasks.
Photo: © tiggra/123RF.com Theme specials Crafts in rural areas Almost half of all craft businesses are located in a village or small town. This special issue explores the challenges and advantages of living and working in the countryside.
Photo: © wang Tom/123RF.com Theme specials Fleet management: How to organize your fleet! Get in, drive off, save money – tradespeople who want to achieve this must address fleet management. New mobility concepts, alternatives to combustion engines, and autonomous driving are transforming the fleet market – but only in the long term.
Photo: © Marvin Evkuran Theme specials Craftsmanship cooks Do you like cooking? Then pay attention: Michelin-starred chefs cook with guests! And in our cookbook "'Meister, das schmeckt mir' - A Culinary Journey Through Germany's Crafts," we've collected artisan recipes!
Photo: © upixel/123RF.com Theme specials Tug-of-war over driving bans Diesel vehicles are already banned or will soon be banned in many cities. Court cases are being litigated nationwide for exceeding emissions standards. But the final word hasn't been spoken yet.
Photo: © Natanael Alfredo Nemanita Ginting/123RF.com Theme specials Ukraine War: Crafts Help Russia's attack on Ukraine, the war, and the unimaginable suffering of the people are also shaking up the skilled trades. Read how the skilled trades are helping and what impact the war is having on businesses here, too.
Photo: © Central Association of German Skilled Crafts Theme specials German Craft Skills Championship 2023 The German Crafts Championships honor the best young craftspeople from across Germany. We present the national winners for 2023.
Photo: © Messe Nürnberg/Thomas Geiger Theme specials Federal Performance Competition PLW of the Crafts Youth 2022 They've already won state titles. Now the best young craftsmen and women will be chosen at the national level. We present the winners of the PLW 2022.
Photo: © maridav/123RF.com Theme specials Corona protection in the workplace Companies are helping to combat the pandemic with hygiene concepts and regular testing of employees. We answer the most important questions about occupational health and safety measures and legal aspects.
Photo: © Günter Menzl/123RF.com Theme specials Direct insurance: get paid twice! Those affected are furious: Anyone who has taken out direct insurance must pay social security contributions upon payout. The corresponding law came into force in 2004.
Photo: © German Bundestag / Achim Melde Theme specials Federal election: What the skilled trades expect from politics Germany will elect a new Bundestag in February. The various trades organizations are taking a stand and formulating their expectations for a new federal government.
Photo: © Ion Chiosea/123RF.com Theme specials Violent protests against the Soka-Bau levy A levy on vocational training sparked fierce protests. However, following a ruling by the Federal Labor Court, one-person businesses no longer have to pay the €900 annual fee. A law (SokaSiG) was specifically created as a separate legal basis for the construction industry's social security fund procedures.
Photo: © auremar/123RF.com Theme specials Heated debate about fire protection switches The revised DIN VDE 0100-420 standard is causing heated debate. The reason is arc fault protective devices, also known as fire protection devices. Construction and electrical associations are arguing about the purpose of the standard.
