Saxony firms tighten apprenticeship hiring as German vacancy rates rise

Companies in Saxony are becoming more selective in hiring apprentices, saying they will not fill a place unless a candidate matches their requirements perfectly. Torsten Köhler, head of education at the IHK Dresden, explained that firms now prefer to leave a vacancy open rather than take a less‑qualified applicant, citing past experiences of trainees dropping out and a reduced need to staff every position. The trend is most pronounced in the automotive sector of Southwest Saxony, where fewer apprenticeship contracts are being offered. The IHK Leipzig also reported a decline in apprenticeship slots in manufacturing, especially among small and medium‑sized enterprises, reflecting broader economic caution.

Across Germany, the tighter hiring climate contributes to a growing number of unfilled apprenticeship positions, highlighting a difficult applicant landscape for young job‑seekers.