Tensions Mount at Ford's Cologne Plant: Employees Prepare for Indefinite Strike
Cologne Ford employees prepare to prolong strike indefinitely - Workers of Ford in Cologne prepare for an open-ended job action
Hear that? The rumble in the heart of Cologne isn't just the usual city rhythm; Ford is facing a hefty labor dispute. After a landslide 93.5% vote in favor of union action, including strikes, IG Metall members are sending a clear message to the auto giant. Over 95.7% of the workforce showed up to cast their votes, demonstrating the employee's unwavering support. "Our team's got your back," says David Lüdteké, spokesperson for IG Metall at Ford Cologne.
The union is now deliberating its next move, with potential strikes as early as next week. The exact extent of the strikes remains unclear, but it's safe to say they'll be more persistent and powerful than the warning strikes in March and April.
"We're commitment-bound to execute this mandate from our colleagues," Kerstin Kleins, the first chairwoman of IG Metall Cologne-Leverkusen, declares, referring to the results of the ballot. "Ford needs to step up - otherwise, we won't back down." Management better worry, 'cause Kleins warns, a rough labor dispute could not only dent Ford's European commercial vehicle business but also Tarnish Ford's image.
Back in 2002, Ford in Cologne saw its first strike following a ballot. However, prior instances ended with a deal between the employer and the union. Ford employs around 11,500 people in Cologne, most of whom are union members.
Ford's Electric Investments Ain't Paying Off Just Yet
The German branch of the U.S. company produces two electric car models in Cologne, but sales are sluggish. The €1.9 billion investment aimed at modernizing the plant for electric vehicle production has yet to reap rewards. The German unit is still bleeding in the red.
To cut costs, management in Cologne seeks to slash 2,900 jobs by 2027. However, they'll need the works council's approval, as a 2020 agreement stipulating no layoffs for operational reasons still applies until 2032.
Verdi demands high severance packages for departing employees and protection funds for those left behind in case Ford goes bankrupt. Although this is still just a theoretical risk, the U.S. parent company's withdrawal of guarantees has recently made it a reality.
As negotiations for a new social tariff agreement reached an impasse, IG Metall called for a ballot, and they sure got what they wanted. While IG Metall can now call for strikes, either temporary or indefinite, constructive talks are on hold until Ford presents a compelling offer. Ford, however, respects the right to strike and continues to negotiate positively.
- The community policy regarding strikes at Ford's Cologne plant is now a pressing concern, with IG Metall specifically mentioning employment policy in their demand for better working conditions.
- The escalating labor dispute, manifested in the strike proposal, could potentially impact the automotive industry's finance and transportation sectors, given Ford's significant employement in these areas.
- Employment policy discussions are taking center stage in the negotiations between Ford and labor unions, with employment policy regulations being a key point of contention.
- The success of Ford's electric vehicle investments has been lackluster, leading to financial losses and the proposal for employment policy changes to address cost reduction.
- The union's call for strikes hinges on Ford's ability to present a favorable employment policy, reflecting the importance of a comprehensive employment policy in resolving the current dispute.
