Thuringia relies on photonics: 2050 new jobs despite the economic crisis!

Thuringia relies on photonics: 2050 new jobs despite the economic crisis!

The economic situation in Germany is also a challenge in 2025, especially for medium -sized companies. In Thuringia in particular, the companies are confronted with an order, high costs and a bureaucracy, which is often perceived as paralysis. Despite these tense circumstances, however, there are some bright spots that give hope for change.

A hopeful aspect is the photonics industry in Thuringia, which presented its plans to create new jobs. By the end of 2026, a total of 2050 new employees are to be hired in this innovative industry. It is remarkable that there are 500 ritles from these new places due to age exits, while the rest are created as fresh positions. Currently, around 650 vacancies are to be filled in Thuringia, especially in the areas of research, production, electronics and IT, which underlines the dynamics and the need in the industry and shows that the demand for specialists is still high in this region.

photonics as a key technology

The Thuringian photonics industry is not only a regional, but also an international heavyweight. It is characterized by a wide range of technology and has developed a unique selling point in Germany. According to the experts from Photonics Report there are no comparable locations in Germany that can offer a similar density in companies in the areas of optics, measurement technology, laser technology and optoelectronics. It is also unique that the companies cover all the areas of photonics relevant to value creation.

The competencies extend to seven central areas and many companies are even active in several technology fields. This speaks for the flexibility and innovative strength of Thuringian companies, which are therefore well positioned in a time of economic uncertainties.

investments and future prospects

Despite the economic challenges, Thuringia seems to be controlled in the right direction. Investments in research and development reach a record of 600 million euros in 2024, which shows that companies continue to recharge with sun and think in the long term. According to thuringia, the photonics industry generates considerable four billion euros annually, mainly in cities like Jena and the Saale-Holzland-Kreis.

A look at the global market for laser also shows persistent growth. The study “Laser Sources: Market, Players and Trends” by Tematys predicts that the market value for laser sources will increase to impressive 26.8 billion euros by 2027. This development shows how strongly the demand in a wide variety of application scenarios, from material processing to sensors to communication, will increase, as also spectaris In summary, it can be said that, despite the current economic difficulties, Thuringia is well positioned with a strong photonics industry. The announced new settings and continuous commitment to research and development are indicators of a positive development. The companies keep a good knack for innovations and are well prepared in order to be able to assert themselves in global competition.