In Germany, the employment in the leather and fur processing sector, including the manufacture of luggage, handbags, saddlery, and harness, is projected to decline steadily from 5.45 thousand full-time equivalents in 2024 to 5.16 thousand in 2028. This represents an average annual decrease of approximately 1.34% over the forecast period. Comparing 2024 with the recent years, a declining trend was already discernible, indicating a contraction in the workforce within this industry due to ongoing automation and shifts in consumer demand.
Future trends to watch for include:
- Increased automation and its impact on employment.
- Shifts in consumer demand towards sustainable and ethically produced goods.
- The potential impact of global trade agreements on the sector.
- Evolving fashion trends that affect product demand.
