Cologne Ford laborers are prepared for an indefinite work stoppage - Striking Ford workers in Cologne prepare for a prolonged work stoppage
Get ready for some serious union action in Cologne. The IG Metall union has announced a 24-hour strike, starting May 14, 2025, to put pressure on Ford over planned job cuts. This is the first time Ford workers in Cologne have resorted to a strike after a union vote, as a whopping 93.5% of IG Metall members voted to use "all union means, including strikes" to defend their jobs[3][4].
The strike will continue until the end of the night shift on May 15, 2025[1]. However, the union is prepared to extend the strike indefinitely if necessary. The workers' decision comes in response to Ford's plans to cut around 4,000 jobs in Europe by 2027, with the majority of these cuts expected in Germany and the UK[2][3].
"The people in the plant are behind us," said David Lüdtke, spokesman for IG Metall at Ford Cologne. The union is determined to stand up for its members and is ready to take further action if needed[1].
The Struggle for Electric Success
Ford's German subsidiary has been investing heavily in electric vehicles, investing almost two billion euros to make its Cologne plant electric-friendly[5]. However, the investment hasn't paid off yet, with sales of the two electric models produced in Cologne remaining sluggish[5]. The German business continues to operate at a loss.
In an attempt to reduce costs, management wants to cut 2,900 jobs by the end of 2027. However, this move is dependent on the approval of the works council, as a previously agreed agreement rules out dismissals for operational reasons[5].
The union, Verdi, is demanding high severance payments and financial protection for remaining employees in case Ford's plants go bankrupt[5]. While this is currently a theoretical possibility, it has become more realistic since Ford's US parent company withdrew its guarantee[5].
Negotiations for a new social tariff agreement have reached an impasse, leading the IG Metall to call for a vote and receive overwhelming support[1]. However, negotiations are currently on hold until Ford presents a viable offer[1]. Ford has stated that it respects the right to strike and continues to pursue constructive negotiations.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story!
[1] [source 1][2] [source 2][3] [source 3][4] [source 4][5] [source 5]
- The IG Metall union's 24-hour strike in Cologne is not only about jobs in Ford, but also about the wider employment policy within the automotive industry.
- The finance department of Ford should take note of the potential impact of the job cuts on the company's reputation and business relationships within the transportation sector.
