Stronger Together: Strategies for Cohesion and the Future of the Housing Industry
From March 17 to 19, 2025, the BBU Days took place in Bad Saarow – the central industry gathering of the Association of Berlin-Brandenburg Housing Companies (BBU). Regional housing associations came together to discuss current topics and challenges facing cooperatives. This year’s event was held under the motto: “Success Factor Team: Together – For Each Other.”
We at SIK-Holz® were also on-site to talk about essential topics such as cohesion, the shortage of skilled workers, and future-oriented planning. Our speaker, Marc Oelker, introduced cooperative members to our strategies and optimistic approaches. In his presentation, “Cohesion! SMEs and an International Workforce – Not a Contradiction, but a Competitive Advantage,” he addressed the shortage of skilled workers and presented our proven methods for recruiting and retaining employees.
Despite our rural location, we employ staff from 13 nations and focus on sustainable, meaningful work, targeted employer branding, a strong training culture, and genuine co-determination. Our strategy is based on brand identity, regionality, and excellent working conditions. Furthermore, we actively engage with social challenges: with pragmatic optimism and solidarity, we foster hope, self-fulfillment, and democratic values – while simultaneously highlighting the enormous potential of skilled trades in Brandenburg.