Industry 4.0: Three Quarters of Companies Invest in Further Training

German industry is facing a period of major change as economic pressures push companies to cut jobs while also embracing new technologies. A recent survey shows that 34% of manufacturers plan significant layoffs in the coming months. At the same time, many firms are investing in digital tools to improve efficiency and reshape their workforces.

The shift towards Industry 4.0 technologies is playing a key role in how companies adapt. Around 57% report that these systems reduce mistakes in factory operations. Another 32% believe such applications help ease labour shortages by making processes more efficient.

Yet the move to automation is also changing job demands. While 68% of firms expect new roles for highly skilled workers, the same percentage see fewer positions for lower-qualified staff. To bridge the gap, 44% now use digital assistant systems to help less experienced employees handle complex tasks. The current wave of layoffs at large corporations like VW, Bayer, and SAP is creating unexpected opportunities. Around 44% of companies find it easier to fill vacancies by hiring workers let go elsewhere. Medium-sized enterprises in IT, construction, and engineering are particularly active in recruiting these skilled employees. Upskilling remains a priority, with 74% of industrial firms investing in training programmes. The goal is to prepare workers for the demands of Industry 4.0 and secure a more stable future.

The changes highlight a dual trend in German industry: job cuts in some areas alongside growing demand for tech-savvy workers. Companies are balancing layoffs with investments in automation and training. The result is a workforce in transition, where digital skills increasingly determine job security.