This is how Reinhold Würth thinks about work ethic in Germany - Billionaire Würth slams Gen Z for prioritizing leisure over Germany's economic future

Reinhold Würth, the 90-year-old billionaire and founder of the Würth Group, has criticised younger generations, including Gen Z, for prioritising leisure over work. In recent statements, he argued that Germany's economic future depends on a return to traditional work ethics—demanding more effort and fewer demands for extra time off.

Würth singled out Millennials and Gen Z, claiming their expectations of shorter hours and longer holidays threaten Germany's competitiveness. He dismissed calls for compensating public holidays that fall on weekends, calling such demands unrealistic. Instead, he insisted younger workers must adapt to harder work and less focus on free time.

The industrialist also pointed to Germany's high rates of sick leave, which he said exceed those in other industrialised nations. He blamed the baby boomer generation for shaping these attitudes, making it harder to reverse the trend. Despite his concerns, Würth remains active himself, still dictating business letters late into the evening and swimming regularly at 90. His warnings extend beyond work culture. Würth believes Germany risks economic decline unless productivity increases and employees embrace greater dedication to the economy. He sees little room for compromise on his stance.

Würth's comments highlight a generational clash over work values in Germany. His call for stricter work ethics contrasts sharply with younger workers' push for better work-life balance. The debate comes as the country faces broader economic challenges and questions about its future competitiveness in the global economy.