Benjamin Salhofer Elected to Lead Ried Chamber of Commerce Through 2030
A new era of economic advocacy has begun in the Ried district as Benjamin Salhofer assumes the chairmanship of the local Chamber of Commerce (WKO), a position he will hold through 2030. The appointment, made at a recent constituent meeting, signals a commitment to modernization, innovation, and a strong voice for regional businesses.
Salhofer, 37, of St. Martin im Innkreis, succeeds Josef Heißbauer, who guided the regional business council for a decade. The transition represents both continuity and a fresh perspective as the WKO navigates increasingly complex economic challenges.
A Builder and Civic Leader Takes the Helm
Salhofer’s background is deeply rooted in the construction and development sectors. He completed training as a master builder and developer and founded his own drawing office, Ing. Benjamin Salhofer, in 2017. Since 2018, he has served as the managing director of Baumeisterbüro Hausleichner GmbH in Senftenbach. His commitment to professional development is further demonstrated by his role as an examiner for apprenticeship exams within the WKO since 2022.
Beyond his business endeavors, Salhofer is actively involved in public service, having been elected mayor of the St. Martin market town in the Innkreis region in October 2023. This dual role positions him uniquely to understand and address the needs of both the business community and the broader population.
Prioritizing Growth and Modernization
According to a statement released by the WKO Ried, the organization’s central goal under Salhofer’s leadership will be to champion “qualification, innovation, and modernization” for regional companies. A key focus will be attracting businesses to the district, enhancing the economic framework, and upgrading infrastructure – encompassing roads, rail networks, and broadband access.
“As a committed and strongly networked advocacy group, we want to enable solutions for everyone, from the founder to the established leading company,” Salhofer emphasized. “The WKO Ried is and remains the first point of contact in all questions about entrepreneurship and about regional economic development.”
The WKOÖ district office serves as a vital resource for the 4,203 companies in the region, offering support from initial business planning to facilitating company transfers. In the previous year alone, 224 new businesses were established. This support is bolstered by non-partisan networks like “Woman in Business” and “Young Economy,” fostering inclusivity and diverse perspectives.
Addressing the Skills Gap and Future Workforce
A critical component of the WKO Ried’s strategy is securing a skilled workforce. The district currently supports 275 apprentices and 903 students in vocational training programs. Initiatives like the Upper Austria Job Week and professional experience days – scheduled for November 21 and 22 at the exhibition center in Ried this year – are designed to connect young people with potential employers and provide valuable career guidance. “
A Dedicated Team Backs the New Chairman
Salhofer will be supported by a committed district office committee, including: Kommr mmag. Dr. Georg Emprechtinger MBA, Georg Gadermayr of Automobile Gadermayr GmbH, Ing. Philipp Grömer of Grömer Stahl GmbH, Manuel Haitzinger of Holdzinger Holding GmbH, Mag.a Barbara Vera Maria Kitzmüller, Elisabeth Poringer of Hotel “Kaiser,” Andreas Redhammer MBA of Swiss Life Select Austria GmbH, Mag.a Katharina Anna Ecker, chairwoman of Women in Business, and Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing. Fabian Prighel, chairman of the Young Economy.
This collaborative leadership structure underscores the WKO Ried’s dedication to representing the diverse interests of the regional business community and driving sustainable economic growth for years to come.
