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WKO Outlines Ambitious 2025-2026 Plan for Building Materials,Iron & Wood trade
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meta Description: The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO) details its strategic initiatives for 2025 and 2026 to bolster the building materials,iron,and wood trade sectors.
The Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO) has unveiled a comprehensive performance plan focused on supporting and expanding the building materials, iron, and wood trade sectors through 2026. The initiative prioritizes workforce development, member support, and enhanced market visibility, with a particular emphasis on attracting the next generation of skilled workers. A warning was also issued regarding fraudulent emails circulating in the name of the WKO/WIFI, urging vigilance among members.
Strengthening the workforce: Apprenticeship & Training Initiatives
A cornerstone of the WKO’s strategy is a robust apprenticeship program, branded as “baustoffhelden” – or “building material heroes” – designed to attract young talent to the industry. In 2025, this will include a multi-faceted campaign leveraging social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, alongside cinema advertising and even appearances on TV 1. According to a senior official, the goal is to “rebrand the trades as a desirable career path for young Austrians.”
Further bolstering these efforts, the WKO will provide a free apprenticeship package for first-year trainees and continue its annual collaboration with ORF (Radio OÖ) to promote apprenticeship opportunities. The “live your talent” campaign will also continue, alongside the “service for Attractive Employers” campaign, offering funding to participating members.
Looking ahead to 2026, the WKO plans to extend its cinema advertising reach and continue the “baustoffhelden” campaign, expanding its social media presence to include Spotify. The apprenticeship package for first-year trainees will remain in place, and the WKO will focus on retaining funding for general terms and conditions up to EUR 500 for active members, as well as special funding for the TOP trade certificate.
Investing in Member Success: Funding & Support Programs
Beyond workforce development, the WKO is committed to providing tangible support to its members. in both 2025 and 2026, active members will be eligible for funding of up to EUR 500 for general terms and conditions. special funding will also be available for obtaining the TOP trade certificate,supporting both initial and subsequent certifications.
The WKO will also expand its online “Customer Expert” course – an interactive learning app – offering additional training in building materials, hardware, hard goods, and wood trading. Intensified personal and telephone contact with member companies is planned for 2026, alongside “forced member support” through newsletters and direct advice.
Collaboration & Industry Partnerships
The WKO recognizes the importance of collaboration and will continue to support the ARGE steel and metal distribution (ARGE SMD), offering training to become a “certified steel merchant.” Cooperation with vocational schools will also be maintained, providing financial support to these key educational institutions. An entrepreneur evening, featuring cabaret by Comedy Hirten, is scheduled for Marchtrenk in 2025.
The WKO’s comprehensive plan demonstrates
