German sheet forming companies are cautiously optimistic despite a tough 2024, according to their trade group, Industrieverband Blechumformung (IBU). The sector, made up mostly of small and medium-sized firms, saw revenues fall 12.2% last year. Compared to 2019, production volume dropped 15.5% and employment declined by over 10%.

Still, sentiment has slightly improved heading into the second half of 2025. A recent change in government has raised hopes for a more supportive economic environment. Policymakers are reportedly more aware of the burdens posed by bureaucracy, high energy costs, and taxation.

However, IBU warns that this optimism is fragile. Without swift and concrete policy action, the industry’s confidence may quickly erode.