IG Metall's Wage Restraint Demand at VW

IG Metall leader Christiane Benner has called for wage restraint from Volkswagen's management amid ongoing labor disputes. The automaker has proposed a 10% wage reduction during collective bargaining, while planning job cuts and possible plant closures. Benner criticized the company's management for its high salaries and questioned the dividend policy, highlighting structural issues and management errors as core problems.

Volkswagen, heavily influenced by Lower Saxony's 20% voting rights, has terminated employment guarantees, creating unrest among its workforce. The dissatisfaction is compounded by the cancellation of anniversary bonuses, despite substantial payouts to shareholders. The criticism extends to the lack of a clear strategy for the future of VW's plants, including the flagship Wolfsburg facility.

Amidst this backdrop, the broader metal and electronics industry is also embroiled in a wage dispute, with IG Metall seeking a 7% pay increase. Employers have countered with a significantly lower offer, prompting discussions and potential strikes. Both sides remain cautiously optimistic about reaching a resolution that could impact millions of employees. The ongoing negotiations are closely watched, as they underline the tension between maintaining corporate profitability and ensuring fair employee compensation.