Family businesses in danger: Experts warn of a dark future!

Family businesses in danger: Experts warn of a dark future!

At the eleventh Economic Forum in Ehingen, Prof. Rainer Kirchdörfer, a renowned lawyer and honorary professor, spoke to entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs about the critical situation of family businesses in Germany. He opened his lecture with a reference to the former Schlecker headquarters, which today houses the company in Bed Businespark. This is an example of the potential in the transformation of companies.

Kirchdörfer emphasized that 92 percent of companies in Baden-Württemberg are family businesses that contribute to economic stability and social cohesion. Nevertheless, there is a concern that many entrepreneurs seriously ask themselves whether the risk and investments are still worthwhile under the given conditions.

Competition and bureaucracy as great challenges

In his analysis of the current economic situation, Kirch villages drew an alarming picture: competitiveness suffers significantly from increasing energy prices. In the EU, electricity prices are three to four times higher than in the United States, and gas is even expensive with four to five times. Although the growth opportunities law is intended as support, it is considered ineffective because it often only offers small adjustments instead of fundamental solutions.

Furthermore, he criticized the uncertainty due to political inconsistency: false subsidies and quick political decisions would have a negative impact on the planning security of companies. He cited the desired abolition of combustion engines within ten years, which leads to uncertainty among entrepreneurs

In addition, Kirchdörfer complained about the exuberant bureaucracy, which perceives more than half of the medium-sized companies as the greatest threat. For him it is necessary for family business to defend themselves against these developments in order to remain competitive in the long term.

Generation change and perspectives

The uncertainty is also reflected in the upcoming generation change. More and more entrepreneurs are thinking about selling their companies because they do not want to put up with the difficult situation of their descendants. Kirchdörfer emphasized that the willingness to succeed, but the number of those who consider a sale has doubled. This is a serious danger to the continuity of many family businesses.

Latest statistics show that many growth markets are abroad, which puts the companies under pressure to reduce investments in Germany. Despite their loyalty to Germany location, it is crucial for family businesses how the economic framework is developing.

Kirchdörfer appealed to politics to develop a reform program that focuses on six key points to support family businesses. This includes the reduction of bureaucracy, measures against the shortage of skilled workers, better investment conditions and a sustainable energy policy.

The reactions of corporate representatives like Markus Handtmann from Albert Handtmann show that the points mentioned have concrete effects on their business strategies. Handtmann emphasizes that a emigration is not an option for him, but the political situation and its development must be observed closely.

Finally, it can be said that the family businesses in Germany face pressing challenges. Nevertheless, there is a strong desire for stability and support, both by the entrepreneurs themselves and politics. A respectful dialogue is therefore essential to put the course for the future in this direction. There are more details on this topic here at www.schwaebische.de .