Oschatz: Companies are more dissatisfied – where is the blame?

Oschatz: Companies are more dissatisfied – where is the blame?

The city of Oschatz received an average grade of 3.6 in the most recent company survey on location satisfaction, which has fallen significantly compared to the 2019 study (grade 3.1). Mayor David Schmidt emphasizes that the city is not one of the economic powerhouses in the Leipzig area, but at the same time is less susceptible to economic fluctuations. These results were published in a joint press release from the Chamber of Crafts and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce in Leipzig and presented in the Oschatz town hall.

A total of 19 companies took part in the survey, which is quite low compared to the required minimum number of 30 responses. 16% of the answers come from the manufacturing and craft industries, while the other 84% come from either trade, transport, logistics or the service sector. Company satisfaction is an important factor for the regional economy, and there is a clear discrepancy in the ratings.

Freedom and challenges

The survey also shed light on entrepreneurs' preferences and frustrations. Satisfaction is particularly high with the availability of untrained workers, the district heating supply, environmental quality and childcare offerings. These aspects are considered strengths of the location. In contrast, high gas prices, electricity costs and poor availability of skilled workers are causing dissatisfaction.

This is also shown by the current trends in Germany as a business location, which, according to Statista, is struggling with high bureaucratic costs, an increasing tax burden and a shortage of skilled workers despite good infrastructure and a trained workforce. The need for strategic projects and the need for cooperation between politics and business are discussed by Dr. Gert Ziener (IHK) and Christian Likos (Chamber of Crafts) also considered crucial.

Future outlook for Oschatz

The feedback from the survey also underlines the potential that Oschatz has to improve its location factors. Mayor Schmidt sees scope for action in the development of daycare offerings and parking spaces, while at the same time the influence of external factors such as the corona pandemic, the Ukraine conflict and the energy crisis should not be underestimated.

In summary, the satisfaction of Oschatz companies has increased when it comes to family-friendliness and the attractive living environment. However, there are clear challenges that need to be addressed to regain business confidence and strengthen the city's economic foundation. These findings are based on the comprehensive analysis that the Chamber of Crafts and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry developed in their last survey. Further details and information can be found on the website of the Leipzig Chamber of Crafts.