IG Metall Clashes with Tesla Over Union Rights at Grünheide Plant

Tesla's resistance to unionization sparks a battle with IG Metall. The union, backed by employees, seeks fair working conditions and collective bargaining rights.

, and Administrator

2025 October 28 . 9:03 PM

1 min read

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IG Metall Clashes with Tesla Over Union Rights at Grünheide Plant

IG Metall, Germany's largest trade union, is pushing for a collective bargaining agreement at Tesla's Grünheide plant. The union seeks fair working conditions, but Tesla opposes its influence. IG Metall chief Christiane Benner has dismissed Tesla's claims as 'an absurd fantasy of a billionaire'.

IG Metall accuses Tesla of employing union-busting tactics to discourage employees from joining the union. Benner has emphasized the need for companies to create financial incentives to retain skilled workers and advocates for fair work worldwide. The union's central goal is to enforce collective bargaining agreements, which it believes ensure fair work and contribute to industry success.

Benner has stated that IG Metall is ready to confront corporations, citing past experiences like those at Ford in the 1970s. The union reports strong support from Polish employees at the Grünheide plant. Meanwhile, Tesla's management is portraying IG Metall as an extension of the established German automotive industry and opposes its dominance in the works council at its plant.

IG Metall continues its efforts to establish a collective bargaining agreement at Tesla's Grünheide plant, aiming to ensure fair working conditions. Despite Tesla's opposition, the union remains committed to its cause, backed by strong employee support. Benner argues that collective bargaining agreements are not inflexible but rather the foundation for fair work and economic growth.