Austrian Paper Industry Sees Lack in Skilled Workers

In 2011, the Austrian paper industry recovered and reached the pre-crisis level. Sales reached 1.08 million tons (+0.7%), revenues came at € 2.11bn (+10.4%). Exports reached 678,000 tons, which is an increase by 2.6%. The export revenues totaled € 1.4bn. As a result, the export quota was 67.3%. Gross earnings amounted to € 800m.

The business cycle is relatively flat. Hence, there is no volatility in revenues or staff. Nevertheless, in the medium term a dynamic growth may be recorded as demand for packaged food is rising. In 2012, the industry expects to achieve stable results.

At the end of 2011, 9114 workers were employed by the Austrian paper industry (after 9,068 the year before). The Austrian paper industry mainly consists of 90 small and medium-sized enterprises.

In order to remain competitive, the association of the Austrian paper industry explained the necessity of attracting sufficient skilled workers. The association plans to create an image which underlines the sustainability of the workplaces and the stability of the industry. The lack in skilled labor is often due to the insufficiency in education. Moreover, the association claims to introduce a more flexible working time regulation.