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In the past few years growing concern has been expressed about the viability of the German training model in the present circumstances of globalisation and new forms of work organisation. This chapter begins by discussing the balance between the costs and benefits of training. The author suggests that while the German training system might be coping with the new forms of work organisation two further problems have affected the sustainability of the system: a severe recession and unification. The balance between the supply and demand for training places is the second major issue dealt with in this chapter. The third topic is the transfer of the West German training system to eastern Germany and the effects of the dismal economic system on the supply of apprenticeships. Although there is considerable subsidy of the eastern German economy, a basis for self-sustaining growth has not so far been established. It is suggested that these issues show the need for training reform and this chapter concludes with a set of measures to modernise the system.