Erfurt (dpa/th) – According to a survey, some of the companies in Thuringia are considering relocations or investments outside of the Free State due to the high cost pressure. The unforeseeable cost dynamics for energy and material are worrying the companies a lot, said the managing director of the Thuringia Business Association (VWT), Stephan Fauth, on Tuesday in Erfurt.
This was the result of a survey by the Thuringian Economic Institute in November among the employer and business associations that are part of the VWT umbrella organization. These represent 254 companies with around 47,000 employees. In addition, 55 companies took part directly in the survey.
Fauth demanded fast and accurate help for the economy in the energy crisis. Economics Minister Wolfgang Tiefensee (SPD) wants to provide information on Tuesday after the cabinet meeting in Erfurt.
According to the association, about a tenth of those surveyed fear that business operations will end within a year. 19 percent stated that they had reduced or interrupted their production. 12 percent of those surveyed would think about turning their backs on Thuringia and relocating their company, almost 10 percent are considering this for parts of the company. About every fifth person who took part in the survey is thinking about making investments only abroad. A majority, 45 percent, want to continue investing in Thuringia.
According to the survey, the current situation was rated rather positively. The average utilization is currently 7.5 months and is therefore at a high level, said Fauth. Some companies have reported a possible “catch-up effect” on individual orders. The reason is the concern of the clients about further rising prices. Despite the difficult situation, the employment situation in the companies is stable and skilled workers are being retained.
