German Industries Face Persistent Order Shortages and Operational Strains Amidst New Transport Restrictions

German companies continue to grapple with significant order shortages across multiple sectors, while also adapting to new logistical challenges such as heavy vehicle bans affecting critical transport routes. According to a recent ifo institute survey, about one third of companies in Germany report insufficient orders, with only a slight improvement from 36.9% in October 2025 to 36.3% in January 2026. Klaus Wohlrabe, head of ifo surveys, cautioned that “the slight easing should not overshadow the fact that many companies still have too few orders.”

The industrial sector remains heavily affected, particularly the machinery sector, which saw an increase in companies reporting order shortages from 41.4% to 43.9%. Electronic and optical manufacturers also experienced rising difficulties, with shortages climbing to 46.8%. The automotive industry is not immune, with around 25% of firms facing insufficient demand. Conversely, the beverage industry shows some recovery, halving order shortages to 13.6%.

The services sector exhibits slightly better conditions, though high order deficits persist among business consultants (53.8%), advertising (51.2%), accommodation, and IT service providers (48.1%). Retail and wholesale trade suffer as well; 62% of wholesalers and over half of retailers (51.3%) continue to report poor order volumes.

Compounding these demand challenges are operational constraints, especially in the Rhein-Sieg-Kreis region, where a heavy vehicle ban on the Bonn North Bridge has disrupted logistics. Local businesses are striving to mitigate impacts by adjusting departure times, rerouting vehicles, and raising prices. However, such measures have limited success in offsetting the difficulties caused by the bridge closure. As a regional business representative lamented, “The value creation in the region will totally suffer.”

Together, these factors highlight the continued pressure on German industries, where persistent order shortages hamper growth and infrastructural changes impose costly operational adjustments. The combination risks prolonged economic strain for various sectors unless demand strengthens and transport conditions improve.