When Denmark spends more on defence, it is not only manufacturers of ammunition and military equipment that feel the effect.
Ordinary technical companies may also gain new business.
More soldiers, larger barracks and increased activity also mean greater demand for electricity, heating, technical installations, servicing and maintenance. This could create opportunities for companies in areas including Lolland-Falster and South Zealand.
Around 500 people currently work at Vordingborg Barracks, in addition to conscripts. The barracks are also due to be expanded with new facilities, increasing the need for construction, installations, servicing and maintenance.
- When the Armed Forces grow, the need for skilled workers grows as well. Barracks need electricity, heating and technical installations, while components and equipment also have to be produced for the Armed Forces. Local companies can help deliver these tasks, either directly or as subcontractors, says Maria Schougaard Berntsen, Deputy Director at TEKNIQ.
The organisation already has members carrying out servicing and maintenance work for the Armed Forces, while others produce components for companies further along the supply chain. But for a smaller company, gaining a foothold in the market is not necessarily straightforward.
- The obstacles are the requirements for documentation, security clearances and tendering procedures. If we want more companies to take part, it needs to be easier to find a way into the system.
TEKNIQ cannot say how many companies in Lolland, Guldborgsund and Vordingborg already supply the Armed Forces, but believes the potential is significant.
- Construction, renovation, production and maintenance will be needed for many years to come. The technical business community has a very practical role to play in keeping the Armed Forces running on a day-to-day basis.
