Hamburg, June 15 – The northern German industry is experiencing its fourth consecutive year of crisis, according to employer associations. Approximately one-third of companies in the metal and electrical sector describe their current situation as poor or unsatisfactory. Despite this, a notable segment of businesses remains optimistic about future prospects.
Mixed Outlook for Hamburg’s Economy
A recent Nordmetall survey reveals that about one-third of Hamburg-based companies anticipate an improvement in their situation over the next few months. A similar proportion intends to increase investments and expand their workforce. Nearly half of the surveyed businesses expect an increase in sales within the next six months.
Challenges in the Electrical and Metal Sector
Many firms within the metal production and electrical industries are currently struggling with a low order intake. The capacity utilization of the northern German metal and electrical industry has fallen to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic, as reported by Nordmetall’s spring survey. Machinery and equipment were utilized at 81.4 percent of capacity, indicating significant underutilization.
Boom in Shipbuilding and Aviation
In stark contrast, other sectors in Hamburg are thriving. The aviation industry and shipbuilding are currently experiencing full order books. Consequently, approximately two-thirds of companies in these sectors plan to create additional jobs. The defense contractor Rheinmetall recently announced plans to create hundreds of new positions in its shipyard business, including at Blohm+Voss in Hamburg.
IG Metall Achieves Breakthrough in Wage Dispute
In related news, employers and the IG Metall trade union in Hamburg have reached a collective bargaining agreement for employees in the metal and electrical industry. The agreement grants a 5.1 percent wage increase for workers in the sector.
Blohm+Voss Seeks New Employees
The Hamburg-based shipyard Blohm+Voss is benefiting from significant orders for the navy, including frigates and unmanned fast boats. This surge in demand is leading to the creation of hundreds of new jobs at the facility, as confirmed by Rheinmetall’s CEO.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90.3 | NDR 90.3 Aktuell | June 15, 2026 | 4:00 PM.
Source: NDR.de
