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In the heart of Germany, the industrial town of Salzgitter is preparing for change, as MAN, a leading German engineering conglomerate, reveals its plans for the site. According to IG Metall, the country's largest metalworkers' union, these plans aim not for renewal, but for controlled shrinkage, a move they describe as an 'economic wrecking ball' rather than industrial policy.
The works council chief, Huseyin Uc, warns of a 'spiral' that could tear apart the social fabric if MAN's plans are implemented. He claims that MAN's top management is dismantling the industrial substance of the site in stages.
The Salzgitter site is more than just a central employer. It is a trainer, an innovation driver, and an anchor for hundreds of suppliers, service providers, and craft businesses in the region. If a large part of the production were to move away, the effects would be far-reaching. Decreased training opportunities, less purchasing power, and reduced support for local institutions could follow.
MAN's plans include the withdrawal of highly specialized production-related areas such as axle assembly, pipe production, and mechanical processing from Salzgitter. The spare parts logistics center is at risk of being outsourced to an independent GmbH or sold to third parties.
Crankshaft production is to be gradually phased out by 2032 due to the transition to electric mobility. IG Metall, however, is not satisfied with these changes. They demand no spin-offs, no wage dumping, and no outsourcing. Instead, they are calling for collectively agreed, future-proof jobs in Salzgitter.
Job security on contract basis, including qualification, retraining, and transformation accompaniment, is another demand from IG Metall. They also seek a reliable future concept with concrete investment commitments in new products and technologies at the site.
IG Metall has issued a 'Red Alert' at MAN in Salzgitter, warning of dire consequences due to the company's latest plans. They have made it clear that a future agreement on MAN's current plans is not acceptable. Instead, they demand involvement of employees in serious negotiations at eye level, not tactical moves in the shadow of operational structures.
The union refers to the 'target image' presented by MAN for the Salzgitter site as 'slash and burn plans.' They argue that a withdrawal from Salzgitter would be a setback for any regional structural policy.
IG Metall directs its appeal to local and state politics, demanding a commitment to industry, the region, and collective bargaining. They warn that those who remain silent today about MAN's plans may have to explain themselves tomorrow about the consequences on the region.
As the situation unfolds, the future of Salzgitter hangs in the balance, with IG Metall and the works council standing firm against MAN's plans for controlled shrinkage. The coming months are likely to be crucial in determining the fate of this industrial town and its workforce.
