Volkswagen: IG Metall bezeichnet VW-Führung als „verantwortungslos“

Wolfsburg – IG Metall's regional leader Thorsten Gröger has harshly criticized Volkswagen's leadership following the termination of numerous collective agreements. Gröger expressed his disapproval of the company's behavior, stating it is "disrespectful towards its own employees" and "irresponsible towards the company itself." He argued that the company's approach risks breaking a conflict that Volkswagen may not be able to use.

Gröger provided an example of a recent discussion on the 2024 future collective agreement, during which workers were informed about the company's plans. The press had already reported on these plans during the meeting itself, suggesting Volkswagen had given prior notice to the public regarding its intentions towards its employees.

Gröger emphasized that the termination of the Manteltarifvertrag, along with the framework conditions for employees, is a "unique occurrence in Volkswagen's history." The trade union is preparing for the conflict surrounding stricter cost-saving measures. Volkswagen has recently terminated a significant portion of its collective agreements, including the vital Manteltarifvertrag.

The company aims to cut around 50,000 positions globally in the coming years, in addition to earlier downsizing plans. The brands and companies have been tasked with planning this out, with half of the cuts potentially affecting German locations. However, specific programs will only be negotiated with employees. The future of VW's factories in Emden, Hannover, and Zwickau, as well as the Audi plant in Neckarsulm, remains open until 2034.