Demographic change

New challenges are emerging in Europe as a result of demographic change, which is to have a huge impact on the economic success of companies and the job situation for employees. With the working-age population declining and a simultaneous increase in the number of people in older population groups, this is shifting the demographic limits in an unprecedented manner. Demographic change in Germany and other developed nations is also characterized by increasing life expectancy, low birth rates and low net migration gains, which has led to a further increase in the average age of the working population.

As a result of demographic change, junior staff is becoming increasingly scarce, the number of employed persons in the 40-49 age group is declining and the focus is shifting to those over 50 years of age. In Germany, for example, gradual entry into retirement at the age of 67, the abolition of early retirement in exchange for semi-retirement arrangements and the development of social insurance systems have led to employees remaining with the Company for a considerably longer period of time.

Simulation calculations carried out by the Rheinmetall Group based on the number of employees in 2009 show, with a constant headcount, a significant increase in the average age and a shift in focus to the upper age groups. Against this background, Rheinmetall adapted various areas requiring attention as regards demographical management at its companies to the respective situation in 2010 and managed them through the HR departments. This includes measures to promote health, qualifications and training, work organization and design and working hours management.