German, Austrian and Swiss businesses should take advantage of UK infrastructure and defence spending
German, Austrian and Swiss (DACH) businesses should take advantage of Rachel Reeves’ commitment to infrastructure and defense spending, say leading audit, tax and business advisory firm, Blick Rothenberg.
Michaela Boettcher, a director at the firm, said: “The spending commitments Rachel Reeves highlighted in the Spring Statement, particularly in defense and infrastructure continue to attract interest from international markets. DACH businesses are in a particularly good position to take advantage of them.”
She added: “It is well known that DACH companies are world leaders in areas such as green building, energy engineering and have a strong defense manufacturing ecosystem.”
Michaela said: “The Autumn Budget allocated over £120bn in additional public capital investment for roads, rail and energy infrastructure, including £15.6bn for major city‑region transport projects. On defence, the government committed to raising spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and has begun to roll out major programs. Creating a lucrative opportunity for DACH businesses.”
She added: “The government’s commitment to building 1.5m new homes is imperilled by a lack of skilled builders and tradespeople available in the UK. DACH businesses and contractors could help plug this gap with their highly skilled and internationally mobile tradespeople.”
Michaela said: “However, this is only possible if the British government provides the framework for uncomplicated movement and work in the UK. This is currently being hindered by The Temporary Shortage List (TSL). The TSL currently restricts visas to above degree level qualified personnel rather than mid-skilled construction workers. Furthermore, the scheme is due to lapse by 31 December 2026, making DACH businesses uncertain about long term projects and investment.”
She added: “Encouraging DACH businesses to invest in the UK and deploy their workers to British building projects would also support the government’s commitment to a closer UK EU economic relationship.”