VW Employees Push for December Contract Resolution
Volkswagen, one of the largest automotive companies in Europe, is currently undergoing crucial labor negotiations aimed at reaching a resolution by the end of the year. Jürgen Mahnkopf, the deputy chairman of the worker's council, emphasized the importance of concluding these talks, stating that “everyone would like a solution in time for Christmas.” However, the outcome remains uncertain.
Cost-Cutting Measures at VW
Faced with significant financial pressures, VW has announced the need for substantial cuts within its main brand, leading to potential plant closures and layoffs. Daniela Cavallo, the head of the labor council, warned that these threats are not merely rhetorical: "If the board could act as they wished, they would proceed with closures and mass layoffs," she asserted.
The Impact of Possible Plant Closures
When asked which plants were at risk, Cavallo mentioned that theoretically, all VW plants, not just one, could face closure. However, she underscored that such drastic measures would not solve the underlying issues and assured that plant closures are not something the worker’s council would agree to.
Both Cavallo and Mahnkopf made it clear that any decision about plant closures would require substantial discussion with the worker’s council, indicating a complex negotiation process lies ahead.
This information was initially reported by heise online.