The print industry in Germany, employing 110,000 people, is grappling with a significant shortage of skilled labor. Of the 8,700 trainees in the sector, many apprenticeship positions remain unfilled. About 75% of the industry’s 7,000 companies report major challenges due to this shortage.
drupa – A Hub for Talent and Innovation
“The print industry has been impacted by labor shortages for years,” according to Heidelberger Druckmaschinen. A recent study by the company, involving a poll of 700 firms, found that nearly half lack suitable skilled staff. This issue now surpasses even rising energy costs and bureaucratic challenges. Heidelberg suggests automation and digitalization as potential solutions to make jobs more technical and appealing. These solutions will be showcased at drupa, the leading international trade fair for print technologies, in Düsseldorf from May 28 to June 7, 2024.
Despite advancements in automation, the need for skilled workers remains critical. drupa will focus on recruiting, offering a platform for enterprises to connect with future employees and trainees. The “drupa next age” (dna) forum will facilitate interactions between start-ups, established companies, and potential recruits. Stuttgart Media University, along with the International Circle of Educational Institutes for Graphic Media Technology and Management, will host discussions and showcase best practices.
Educational Initiatives and Industry Efforts
Several initiatives aim to promote careers in the print industry and raise awareness about job opportunities. The German Association Print and Media (BVDM) has created training videos highlighting the experiences of trainees in media technology, print, screen printing, and print processing. These videos emphasize the rewarding nature and secure future of these careers.
Additionally, the Machinery and Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (VDMA) launched the “Talent Machine” campaign to attract young people to careers in machinery and equipment building. At drupa, the Fachverband Medienproduktion (FMP) will premiere its WE.ARE.PRINT initiative, fostering partnership, networking, and talent promotion in the print and media industries.
Sabine Geldermann, Project Director Print Technologies at Messe Düsseldorf, commented, “drupa offers print service providers and their suppliers a unique opportunity to showcase the industry’s future and attract skilled labor and young talent. I am confident that the innovative nature of the industry will draw more young people into print professions.”