Western Pomerania-Greifswald: Bitter forecasts for the labor market in summer
In July 2025, the unemployment rate in Greifswald will remain at 9%. Layoffs at HanseYachts herald uncertain times.

Western Pomerania-Greifswald: Bitter forecasts for the labor market in summer
In the Vorpommern-Greifswald district, the labor market is showing the first signs of a certain stagnation in June 2025. Northern Courier reports 10,211 people looking for employment. That's 39 fewer than the previous month, but still 248 more than a year ago.
The unemployment rate remains stable at 9 percent. However, Klaus-Peter Köpcke, head of the Greifswald employment agency, sees a decline in momentum on the labor market. Positive developments can be seen primarily in seasonal sectors, although their intensity is falling. The seasonal upswing appears to have subsided this year. This trend is primarily influenced by the upcoming summer holidays, as the capacity to train new employees decreases at this time.
Impact of layoffs at HanseYachts
There is worrying news for the district: HanseYachts in Greifswald is facing 200 layoffs, which have not yet been reflected in the current statistics. On NDR It is reported that 190 employees at the Greifswald plant were recently affected and the first wave of layoffs, which took effect at the end of May, has already forced 65 employees to quit.
In addition, jobs at the Polish branch in Goleniów are also at risk. More than 160 employees there have been laid off, although in contrast to Greifswald, no social plan has been drawn up for affected employees. HanseYachts is planning to restructure production and is hoping for guarantees from the state government, while discussions with the Ministry of Economic Affairs in Schwerin are already underway.
Forecasts for the coming months
Klaus-Peter Köpcke expresses concern that the unemployment rate could rise by the autumn season compared to last year. In particular, fixed-term contracts, such as those of school social workers, end with the current school year, and it is uncertain to what extent trainees will be taken on by their companies. Nevertheless, there are also bright spots. Despite the precarious situation, it is important to mention the precautions that have already been taken. These include consultations and qualifying measures for the dismissed employees.
The situation on the labor market remains tense, but a certain level of satisfaction can still be observed. The challenge now is to cope with the coming months and, above all, to offer the affected employees a perspective. Further information on the situation on the labor market can be found on the website Employment agency.