Meisterbetrieb

Meisterbetrieb is a term used in German-speaking countries to denote a craft business that is led by a master craftsman (Meister). The Meister is a person who has successfully completed the Meisterprüfung, earned the Meisterbrief, and is authorized to run a craft business, supervise skilled work, and train apprentices. Under national craft regulations, many trades require a Meister to operate legally, to employ apprentices, and to supervise work on site. A Meisterbetrieb signals compliance with professional standards and organizational capability beyond basic qualification.

Responsibilities and rights: The Meister bears responsibility for the quality and safety of the work, adherence to professional regulations and consumer protection rules, and the training of trainees. The enterprise typically employs at least one Meister and may use the designation Meisterbetrieb in its official name and marketing. In regulated crafts, certain complex or safety-critical tasks may only be performed by a Meister or under direct Meister supervision.

Significance and scope: Meisterbetriebe are central to the craft sector’s traditional apprenticeship system, providing structured training and maintaining standards across trades such as plumbing, electrical, carpentry, masonry, and metalworking. The concept exists in Germany and, with regional variations, in Austria and Switzerland, where similar master qualification systems govern the operation of craft businesses.