FemernBusiness has asked a number of people with their finger on the pulse of the region's business community to give their take on what 2025 will be like. Here you can read about Allan Aaskov's assessment. He is the bank director for Lollands Bank and here gives his take on what will define the year.
What trends do you see for the business community in Lolland, Falster, and South Zealand in 2025?
The business community in Lolland, Falster, and South Zealand is experiencing positive development these years, which we as a financial institution can also feel. I see no reason why this trend should not continue in the coming years. According to a survey from the Confederation of Danish Industry, both Lolland and Guldborgsund municipalities have moved significantly up the ranking list for business friendliness. Lolland Municipality is now ranked 29th, while Guldborgsund is in 41st place.
Blue Book
Name: Allan Aaskov
Position: Bank Director at Lollands Bank
Start Date: January 1, 2020
Role: As bank director, Allan Aaskov leads Lollands Bank and is responsible for the daily operations and, together with the board, the strategic development of the bank.
Additionally, there are several major projects and investments in the area. The first tunnel element for the Fehmarn Belt connection has been inaugurated, and there are plans for a large industrial park at Rødbyhavn. These initiatives will likely attract new businesses and create growth in the region.
In South Zealand, where we have a large branch in Vordingborg, I also see positive development in 2025. There are plans for improvements to the road and rail network, which will provide businesses with better transport options and attract labor.
Many companies in South Zealand are investing in green technology and sustainable solutions, which not only create new business opportunities but also benefit the environment.
It has also been announced that municipalities in South Zealand will actively work to create a business-friendly environment through various initiatives and support schemes, including the Masnedø project and the Business Master Plan 2030 for Vordingborg.
My assessment is therefore that the future overall looks bright for Lolland, Falster, and South Zealand.
Which sectors do you think will experience growth in the coming year - and why?
In the construction and civil engineering sector, many jobs will continue to be created as a result of the Fehmarn Belt connection, which is one of the largest infrastructure projects in Europe. This will also attract further investments to the region.
The port area in Nakskov and Rødby, which is vital for the transport and logistics sector, is another important growth area.
In the green transition, more companies are choosing to locate in the region due to the strong focus on sustainability and green energy.
Tourism is also a sector with great potential. Lolland Municipality has announced plans to develop the coastline at Rødbyhavn into a new beach park with recreational areas and hotel facilities.
Which sectors will struggle?
The retail sector continues to be challenged in our area due to increased competition from online shopping and larger chains. It is important that smaller shops and businesses manage to adapt to the changing consumer patterns.
At Lollands Bank, we have invested significantly in supporting local shops and street-level businesses to provide them with a stronger foundation for future development.
What are the biggest challenges companies in the area face in 2025?
Companies in the region face a number of challenges, with labor shortages being one of the biggest. There is already a shortage of both general and specialized labor, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years.
Additionally, the technological transition requires companies to adapt to new technologies and digitalization to maintain their competitiveness. This involves investments in new technology as well as upskilling and training of employees to ensure they can keep up with developments.
Stricter environmental regulations also pose a significant challenge, as they can lead to increased costs and place greater demands on the implementation of sustainable solutions. Companies must therefore adapt their processes and products to meet the new requirements.
Finally, the region may experience increasing competition from larger cities when it comes to attracting investments and talented workforce. This can make it difficult for companies to grow and maintain their position in the market.
How can companies prepare themselves to take advantage of new opportunities in the region?
Companies in the region can benefit from a range of initiatives that have already been launched. Lolland Municipality has established eight strategic beacons, focusing on the school of the future, housing development, and business development, among other things. At the same time, Visit Lolland-Falster is working to make the region a year-round destination by attracting more visitors outside the peak season. The tunnel element factory in Rødbyhavn, which has now become a permanent installation, is expected to attract workforce, while DI Lolland-Falster is closely collaborating to strengthen efforts for recruiting international employees. Additionally, Lolland International School plays an important role in attracting international families who wish to settle in the area.
To best leverage the region's growth opportunities, companies can benefit from strengthening their employer branding by highlighting the company's values and culture to attract qualified labor. Additionally, offering flexible working hours and remote work can improve the work-life balance, making it more attractive to work in the area. Finally, companies can increase their collaboration with local educational institutions through partnerships, internship programs, and collaborative projects, which can attract newly graduated talents and create a stronger recruitment base.
