Traditional German Bakeries Decline as Industrial Bread Production Surges

A new study reveals significant structural shifts in Germany's baking industry, with traditional bakeries losing ground to large industrial players.

The number of traditional bakeries in Germany has dropped by 30% in the past decade, while industrial bread production has expanded significantly.
Industry revenue reached €21.8 billion in 2023, but the shift toward large-scale production has led to less stable employment, with a rise in part-time and low-wage jobs.
The number of apprentices in the baking sector grew by over 11% in 2024, reversing a long-term decline, though almost 25% of apprentices fail to complete their training.
High energy costs, labor shortages, and bureaucratic hurdles are among the biggest challenges facing the baking sector today.
Large industrial bakeries now dominate the market, with just 55 companies accounting for 36% of total revenue, up from previous years.