Die konjunkturelle Entwicklung im Handwerk 2017
Economic growth in 2017 was driven by stronger demand from abroad and above all by private consumption and increasing investment activity in the domestic economy. The craft sector was able to benefit from this. On average, its sales increased by 3.6% (approved craft) and 2.0% (non-approved craft). However, the increase does not meet the expectations arising from the positive economic environment. Here, structural market changes are likely to play a role as well as the problems of companies to recruit skilled workers. The number of employees in the craft sector rose by 0.6% in the crafts that require certifications. For the first half of 2018 the craft trade reports indicate that nominal sales growth is continuing, although this is not reflected in employment. The RWI forecasts nominal sales in the craft sector to increase by about 5% in 2018. Assuming prices to rise by 3 to 4%, the real growth would be between 1 and 1.5%.
Dehio, J. and W. Dürig (2018), Die konjunkturelle Entwicklung im Handwerk 2017. RWI Konjunkturberichte, 69, 3, 57-75