Metall- und Elektroindustrie: Warnstreiks der IG Metall kurz nach Mitternacht angelaufen

Frankfurt/Main. The IG Metall union has launched preliminary warning strikes in the German metal and electronics industry shortly after midnight on Sunday. Immediately following the end of the peace hour at midnight, employees of the night shift at Thyssenkrupp's nickel plate manufacturer in Andernach (Rhineland-Palatinate) abruptly halted work for a limited time.

Approximately 300 workers gathered for a protest outside the factory gate. Additionally, a protest action commenced in Munich at RF 360 Europe/Qualcomm, a mobile phone supplier. These protests are intended to expand nationwide during the coming week. The IG Metall aims to intensify pressure during tariff negotiations with around 3.7 million workers.

Industries affected by the temporary work stoppages include automotive production, engineering, electronics, and metal manufacturing. The union demanded a 5% increase in wages and job and location security over a 12-month period. The employers presented an offer in the second round of negotiations, which included a one-time payment in the coming year and a 1.3% salary increase in July 2028.

This offer was below inflation and justified by the challenging economic climate and high cost burdens faced by German industry. IG Metall President Christiane Benner had announced "strong warning strikes" because the "so-called offer" only provoked "uncomprehending and angry" reactions in the factories. The union emphasized the need to preserve purchasing power and future prospects for all at the workplace.

"The employers view employees as mere cost factors. The deficit offer has only increased the anger in the workforce," said Jörg Köhlinger, president of the IG Metall district in central Germany, addressing striking workers in Andernach.