Economic pulse in Schmalkalden: 42 billion euros in sales per year!

Economic pulse in Schmalkalden: 42 billion euros in sales per year!

In the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district, which is currently inhabited by around 119,500 people, not only the hearts of the residents beat, but also those of the economy. The current situation in Thuringia's manufacturing sector makes it clear that this sector of the economy is a real nuclear power for the region. According to inSüdthüringen, 1,639 companies that employed at least 20 employees were already registered in 2023. These companies alone provided 169,465 jobs and generated an impressive turnover of over 42 billion euros.

But what about the latest developments? The Thuringian State Office for Statistics recently published fresh figures in this regard. This shows that companies in the manufacturing sector demonstrated consistent stability not only in 2023, but also in the first half of 2025. The structural data provided by Destatis shows that a large number of companies are comprehensively recorded on a monthly and annual basis. This includes figures on employees, wages and sales so that the industry's progress remains transparent.

Economic developments in Thuringia

Export activity should not be underestimated. In July 2024, for example, companies in Thuringia were able to boast total foreign sales of over 1.07 billion euros. This is made up of significant sales to the Eurozone and other foreign countries. Overall, sales in the manufacturing sector in the same year amounted to almost 2.89 billion euros when domestic and foreign sales are added together. The official statistics from Statistikportal impressively illustrate that the sector is very popular both domestically and internationally.

Employment patterns are also worth noting. While a total of 144,380 people were active in 808 companies in 2023, in the first half of 2025 there were already 169,465 employees in 1,639 companies. These figures demonstrate the growth and creation of new jobs in the region, which is hugely important for the local economy.

Look into the future

The emerging economy of the Thuringian manufacturing sector shows that there is a lot of potential here. The industry receives support through the targeted collection of data, which enables companies to adapt their market strategies accordingly. An example of this is the quarterly production survey, which provides important information about specific products. These surveys not only provide insights into manufacturing processes, but also help identify growth opportunities.

The economic developments in the region are positive and show that the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district is developing a powerful industrial landscape that is prepared for the future. It remains to be seen what new developments will come our way in this exciting terrain. One thing is certain, however: a lot is happening here, and not just for the local companies, but also for the entire population.