Observed Signal · Nov 29, 2018 · Study · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Negative
Study: Skilled labor shortage biggest risk for firms
A Deloitte study based on 180 surveyed German CFOs finds a predominantly pessimistic view of the domestic economy, with the skilled-labor shortage identified as the top risk for companies now and in the next year. About 65% report difficulty finding qualified staff, and the share citing shortages has risen by 14 percentage points from the previous year. Firms attribute higher recruiting costs (74%) to the shortage, alongside reduced productivity and hindered growth. The shortage is most acute in technology and IT, with broader impacts across retail, energy, and consumer-goods sectors, and notable pressure in automotive R&D. Respondents advocate measures such as improving working conditions, increasing automation, and investing in education; 72% favor higher public education spending, 60% want expanded childcare, and over half support easier immigration for skilled non-EU workers. The Bundesagentur für Arbeit contends there is no general shortage, noting regional variances and longer vacancy durations (109 days on average, with 175 days for Altenpfleger and 159 days for IT).
Significant industry-wide concern about skilled labor shortages and its economic impact; cross-sector relevance with policy implications.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Deloitte surveyed 180 CFOs in Germany.
- 65% report difficulty finding qualified staff; shortage up 14 percentage points from last year.
- 74% say recruiting costs have risen due to talent shortage.
- Technology and IT are the most affected areas (57% strongest impact).
- Bundesagentur für Arbeit: no general shortage; average 109 days to fill a vacancy; 175 days for Altenpfleger; 159 days for IT.
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