Business association chairman Michael Luther speaks about the economy, urban development and the partnership with Merck
Since 1890, the Arheilgen Business Association has represented the interests of local companies and is committed to the development of the district. Chairman Michael Luther speaks about opportunities, challenges, and the importance of strong partnerships.
The Arheilgen Business Association is one of Darmstadt's most established business associations. Since its founding in 1890, it has championed the interests of local businesses while simultaneously fostering community life in the district. With approximately 60 member companies from the retail, trade, service, and freelance sectors, the association sees itself as a network, advocate, and catalyst for Arheilgen. Events, joint initiatives, and projects contribute to strengthening the local economy and promoting community spirit. As part of our "Livable Darmstadt" series, DA.news spoke with Chairman Michael Luther about the development of the area, current challenges facing businesses, and the importance of the partnership with Merck.
The Arheilgen Business Association represents the interests of many local companies. What role does the association play in the economic development and community spirit of the district?
Since its founding, the Arheilgen Business Association has fulfilled a dual role: it serves as both an economic network and a social driving force in the district. With approximately 60 member companies from a wide range of sectors, it strengthens the visibility and competitiveness of local businesses. Through joint initiatives, events, and networking, retailers, tradespeople, service providers, and freelancers all benefit from one another.
An important goal is to keep purchasing power within the district and to raise awareness of local offerings. Projects like the "Arheilgen Gold Nugget," a local shopping voucher, specifically promote the regional economy.
Furthermore, the association sees itself as a mediator between business, citizens, politics, and administration. In addition to economic issues, it has been actively involved in community life in Arheilgen for many years. Events such as trade fairs, Christmas markets, flea markets, and the traditional boundary walk foster encounters and strengthen identification with the district.
How has the commercial structure in Arheilgen changed in recent years – and what opportunities and challenges does this present for the location?
Arheilgen has changed significantly in recent years. While industry, agriculture, and transport-related businesses used to dominate the townscape, services, commerce, healthcare, and local amenities now have a stronger presence.
The development of the town center, new residential areas, and a growing population have increased the demand for local services. At the same time, businesses benefit from the convenient location between Darmstadt, Frankfurt, and Weiterstadt, as well as the excellent tram and train connections.
However, this faces challenges. Competition from online retailers is increasing, commercial space is becoming scarcer and more expensive, and many businesses are struggling with a shortage of skilled workers and rising costs. The major task is to enable growth while simultaneously preserving the diversity and unique character of the town center.
What makes Arheilgen a particularly attractive location for companies and customers from your perspective?
Arheilgen combines economic strength with a high quality of life. Businesses benefit from excellent transport connections and proximity to science, research, and major employers in Darmstadt and the surrounding region.
At the same time, despite its growth, the district has retained its unique character. The mix of established neighborhoods, good infrastructure, short distances, and a vibrant town center makes Arheilgen attractive to many people. This combination of economic dynamism and local identity is a particular strength of the location.
What issues are currently of most concern to member companies?
The shortage of skilled workers remains the top priority. Many companies are struggling to find and retain qualified staff. At the same time, digitalization is transforming almost every industry. Digital processes, automation, and increasingly artificial intelligence are becoming ever more important, but they pose financial and organizational challenges, especially for smaller businesses.
Added to this are rising costs for energy, personnel, materials, and financing. Bureaucracy, sustainability requirements, and the question of how to future-proof business models are also keeping companies busy. Many businesses are currently having to manage several major transformation processes simultaneously.
The local business association receives support from companies including Merck. What significance does this commitment have for the association's work and for projects in the district?
Merck is far more than just a sponsor for the local business association. The company is a key cooperation partner and main sponsor. Its support enables numerous projects, events, and initiatives that would be difficult to realize without strong partners.
At the same time, the involvement of an internationally successful company sends an important signal for the region. It demonstrates that large employers also have an interest in vibrant neighborhoods and a strong local economy. This collaboration benefits not only the member companies but also the local residents.
Furthermore, the cooperation creates valuable networks and opportunities for exchange, for example in the areas of promoting young talent, securing skilled workers and innovation.
To what extent does the collaboration with Merck go beyond traditional support?
From our perspective, this collaboration has the character of a genuine local partnership. Merck has been closely connected to Darmstadt for generations and takes responsibility for the environment in which many employees live and work.
Such partnerships create connections between businesses, associations, and the community. The business association acts as a platform where shared interests can be consolidated and translated into concrete projects.
Ultimately, both sides benefit: The neighborhood gains stability, attractiveness, and quality of life, while businesses benefit from a functioning local environment and strong regional ties. This is precisely where the particular value of such collaborations lies.
Liveable Darmstadt
powered by MerckClubs and associations are the heart of a community. They foster social integration and bring people together. They enrich local life through cultural and sporting activities, offer educational opportunities, and are involved in social projects. In short: they make a city like Darmstadt a great place to live.
But this costs money. Membership fees aren't always enough. In this series, we present selected Darmstadt clubs and associations that are supported by Merck – be it in sports, culture, community service, or science education.
Each of these clubs has a unique story and contributes to strengthening the community in its own way. We asked the organizers what makes their club special and how the partnership with Merck not only provides financial support but also fosters growth and development.
Learn more about the diverse club and association scene in Darmstadt and how Merck and its partners are achieving more together – for a region worth living in.
