Half of German Companies Identify High Need for AI Training Amid Rising AI Adoption

A recent study highlights a significant digital divide in the German economy based on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). More than half (56%) of surveyed companies in Germany currently employ generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot in their operations. These companies have reported substantial benefits, with 54% noting strong increases in productivity and efficiency, compared to only 14% of companies not using such AI technologies.

The 'TÜV Weiterbildungsstudie 2026,' conducted by Forsa among 500 companies with at least 20 employees, also found that 31% of companies using AI have automated tasks through AI, exceeding the 21% across all companies. Additionally, nearly half (47%) of AI-using firms have adapted workflows and decision-making processes, reflecting the transformative impact of AI on business operations.

This tech adoption comes with pressing upskilling demands; 50% of all companies see a high need for further AI training, climbing to 71% among companies actively using AI and 70% in larger firms with 250 or more employees. Training focuses primarily on practical AI application skills, emphasized by 72% of companies, alongside foundational understanding (67%).

Such findings indicate a strong correlation between AI use and competitive positioning, with 40% of AI users recognizing changed industry competition dynamics. The study underscores the critical importance of practical AI knowledge to leverage productivity gains and to keep pace with industry shifts. As AI becomes more embedded in daily business, German companies face an urgent imperative to invest in comprehensive AI training to fully capitalize on these benefits.