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Exchange on securing skilled workers, infrastructure and modern economic development
As the City of Darmstadt reports, Mayor Hanno Benz and the new President of the Darmstadt Rhine-Main-Neckar Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Christian Jöst, met for an in-depth discussion. The focus was on the economic prospects of Darmstadt and the region, securing skilled workers, infrastructure development, and the strategic advancement of municipal economic development.
Economic development is being restructured
Both participants emphasized the challenging situation for businesses – including those in Darmstadt. With the integration of the economic development agency into Darmstadt Marketing GmbH, Mayor Benz aims to avoid duplication of structures and address key future issues in a targeted manner. The economic development agency will henceforth be the primary contact for businesses, from start-up to expansion, and will function as an agile service provider.
Benz emphasized that Darmstadt's long-term economic strength can only be secured through close cooperation between the city, businesses, and the region. The goal is a practical, networked, and future-oriented economic development strategy that actively supports investment, research, and job creation.
Chamber of Industry and Commerce emphasizes planning certainty and area development
Chamber of Commerce President Christian Jöst emphasized the importance of reliable framework conditions, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. Planning certainty and less bureaucracy are crucial so that businesses can concentrate on their core operations. He also stressed the need for a forward-looking land-use policy: commercial and industrial sites are essential for retaining companies and skilled workers in the region.
Regional cooperation as a key
Both sides agreed that southern Hesse's economic position can only be further strengthened through close regional cooperation. Open dialogue between municipalities and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce, as well as a shared understanding of the region as a metropolitan area, are fundamental prerequisites for economic transformation.
Other topics: City center, infrastructure and growth conference
The discussions also covered the further development of Darmstadt's city center, the establishment of innovative companies, and the connection between science, research, and business. Mayor Benz referred to the second Darmstadt Science City Growth Conference, which will take place on November 28th.
Benz concluded by emphasizing that economic development is a long-term process that requires the continuous collaboration of administration, politics, businesses, and academia. The Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) is a reliable partner in this endeavor.
(Darmstadt - Red/PSD/HO)
