Automotive

The automotive industry is one of the flagship sectors of the (German) economy. In tandem with its suppliers, it had been facing new challenges in the international markets long before the current financial crisis took hold. Political calls for environmental regulations, such as ever-tougher CO2 limits, are changing the mindset of the industry. In light of the head start achieved by a handful of manufacturers with their alternatives to the traditional internal combustion engines, the industry needs to meet the changing expectations of customers by speeding up its already fast pace of innovation.

When it comes to selling its products, the industry needs to find new global strategies that cover new markets and customer groups – some of them calling for a much more diversified product range and supply chain. A particularly urgent topic – not least reinforced by the credit crunch – is tackling the existing capacity overhangs and coping with the toughening competition on the international markets. Rebate and price wars are expected, which in turn will create new pressures on costs that companies need to cover.

Car manufacturers and the closely linked automotive supplier and car dealership network have long been among the top employers in Germany. Almost every fifth job is maintained by this sector alone. Traditionally, economic uncertainties have had an immediate impact on the success of the business. This cyclical nature and the fast pace of innovation in the industry mean that vacancies are both created and filled at an astonishing rate and that additional workforce capacity is built up to prepare for future developments.

The German automotive industry is facing turbulent, but also exciting times. It needs to tackle the manifold challenges of the future proactively in order to remain a viable force in the markets – and we will be there with you.

Contact: