German firms see mixed sick leave trends amid recession fears in 2025
Sick leave rates among Germany’s biggest companies have shifted in 2025. A new survey reveals mixed trends, with half of the DAX firms reporting a slight drop in absences. The findings come as the country faces its third year of economic recession.
The study covered Germany’s 40 DAX-listed companies and its largest family-run businesses. Around half of those approached took part in the research.
In 2024, half of the DAX firms had recorded a small rise in sick leave. But for the first nine months of 2025, the picture changed. Roughly half of the same group now report a slight decline, while the rest saw no change.
No data was provided on sick leave rates from the 20 largest family-owned firms for 2022 or 2024. This leaves their trends unclear.
Experts suggest the economic downturn is playing a role. Volker Nürnberg, from consultancy BearingPoint, points to job insecurity as a key factor. Employees worried about losing their positions are taking fewer days off sick.
The survey highlights a shift in absence patterns among major German employers. With recession fears lingering, fewer workers are calling in sick. The long-term impact on workplace health and productivity remains to be seen.
