Half of German businesses struggling to find trainees: survey

German businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to find trainees, according to a survey released on Thursday, reported dpa.

The study by the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK) found that half of firms offering traineeship schemes were unable to fill their places last year.

An estimated 30,000 companies - more than a third of those with recruitment difficulties - did not receive a single application for their programmes.

"The shortage of skilled labour starts with trainees," said DIHK executive Achim Dercks.

Small companies are said to be struggling more than large businesses.

Attracting trainees has proven particularly difficult in the manufacturing, hospitality, retail, transport, and construction sectors, the study suggested.

In all, 13,077 companies from across Germany took part in the survey.