Upcoming Trade Shows in Germany for Stone

Germany’s natural stone industry is mostly tied to the construction industry, which hasn’t been doing all that great. Last year alone, the construction sector fell short of its target of 400,000 new homes annually by around 150,000 units, which has meant the stonemasonry sector had to adjust course. While orders from new residential developments have dwindled, the industry is seeing more activity in renovation and refurbishment, especially among older property owners. Industry insiders have seen a rise in interest for modernising existing homes as many Germans over 60 are investing in age-appropriate renovations. This could be one of the best avenues for Germany’s natural stone industry to stabilize. Despite Germany’s status as a high-cost economy, the country’s stonemasons remain competitive, largely due to its robust dual vocational training system. Apprentices split their time between hands-on learning at companies and formal instruction from technical experts. This model has produced a skilled workforce of technicians, restorers, and designers who set high standards in craftsmanship and quality. Still, the sector faces an ongoing labour shortage. Although journeymen’s wages have increased in recent years, the skilled trades struggle with image issues. Fewer young people are entering the field, and many businesses are unable to find apprentices, let alone trained professionals. In terms of market trends, German consumers continue to favour classic aesthetics. Light grey, beige, and darker black stone types remain in high demand. However, there is growing awareness of the environmental costs of long-distance imports. As a result, stones from Europe and local German quarries are gaining popularity. The natural stone industry is emphasizing this eco-friendly angle, noting that stone is not only durable but also requires no industrial production—its main ecological drawback lies in transport.