The industry
The construction industry is experiencing a strong growth phase in both private and public construction as a sensor of the economy. Low interest rates, positive economic prospects and the increased interest of national and international investors to invest in real estate in Germany are the drivers of the current situation. However, the construction industry must be viewed in a differentiated way. There is a considerable difference between companies located in rural regions with declining populations and companies located near metropolitan regions. In addition, cost pressure from companies in neighbouring countries to the east means that small and medium-sized enterprises have to adapt their working methods and cost structures. Last but not least, new "production approaches" such as lean construction, new materials and, in particular, digitization (Building Information Modeling - BIM) are leading the sector to change.