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Family business in danger: experts warn of a bleak future!
Prof. Rainer Kirchdörfer discusses the challenges for family businesses in Germany at the Ehingen Economic Forum.
Family business in danger: experts warn of a bleak future!
A dramatic picture is drawn: Germany's family businesses are on the brink! At the eleventh Ehinger Economic Forum in the BED Business Park, Prof. Rainer Kirchdörfer opened with a shocking statement about the challenges that burden these companies. “You can see what can arise from the ashes of a family business here,” he emphasized emphatically, while citing the past of the former Schlecker headquarters as an example.
For an hour, the renowned lawyer and honorary professor captivated his audience with a powerful message on the topic of “Economic Policy Reform Program for Germany – Family Business as a Success Factor.” The listeners were captivated by the gloomy forecasts he made for the German economy.
The importance of family businesses
Kirchdörfer made it clear: “92 percent of the companies in Baden-Württemberg are family businesses, and they are the backbone of our society.” According to Kirchdörfer, these companies are not only the stabilizers of the economy, but also indispensable for social cohesion - especially in rural areas. But despite this essential role, they do not receive the support they need. “Where is the priority of competitiveness in the government?” he asked provocatively.
He reveals shocking facts about the economic situation. “The situation has deteriorated dramatically!” The most important industries, chemicals and automobiles, are suffering from immense pressure. “In the EU, electricity prices are three to four times higher and gas four to five times more expensive than in the USA,” he complained about the catastrophic conditions that endanger the competitiveness of German companies.
Family business under pressure
The uncertainty is driving entrepreneurs to the brink of despair. Kirchdörfer reports on worried entrepreneurs who are thinking about selling their companies to spare their children the burdens of the current market. “He said: ‘They should do whatever they want in the world with the proceeds!’” he worriedly described the thoughts of some business leaders.
Another alarming sign: the number of successors considering selling their family business has doubled. “We run the risk of losing these valuable companies!” warned Kirchdörfer urgently, while emphasizing the lasting ties of family businesses to their location, even if global growth markets are tempting.
In order to address these challenges, Kirchdörfer outlined six crucial points that politicians should implement: reducing bureaucracy, combating a shortage of skilled workers, creating better framework conditions for investments and developing a well-thought-out energy policy are just some of his demands. “Otherwise we will face bureaucratic burnout!”
His passionate presentation ended with a clear appeal: “If nothing changes, we will bleed to death and our most valuable companies are in danger of being lost!”