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www.cpi-worldwide.com CPI %u2013 Concrete Plant International %u2013 4 | 2025 3EDITORIALDr.-Ing. Holger Karutz Alexander OlbrichThe concrete industry in Germany is in a difficult situation. Turnover in precast elements and in paving blocks declined significantly in 2024. Precast slabs have been especially hard hit %u2013 here, the market virtually collapsed. Concrete paving blocks lost ground as well, especially in gardening and landscaping.The main reason for this is the massive slump in new residential construction. Demand is falling, prices are under pressure, and there are too many suppliers on the market. In well-developed industrial sectors and markets, this is a dangerous combination.A look at other European countries shows that similar problems also exist in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The answers lie in the increasing use of sustainable building materials and modern construction methods. In Austria and Switzerland, there is comparatively rising investment into infrastructure and climate protection, so that the declines are not quite as high. Declines are also being recorded in southern Europe, but there, too, is growing understanding and willingness to make concrete more climate-friendly.For the industry as a whole, this means that change is needed. CO2-reduced concrete, the use of recycled raw materials, digital production %u2013 all of these can help to create new opportunities. These topics were addressed at many stands at bauma in April. Suppliers are ready to break new ground. However, political support is also important: targeted funding, planning security, and clear climate goals.The current crisis is serious %u2013 but it also opens up new opportunities. Concrete is needed. Concrete is not the problem: concrete and precast elements in particular are part of the solutions of tomorrow, and this message we must jointly communicate. Between crisis and new opportunities: The concrete industry in 2025