Frankfurt am Main/Essen – thyssenkrupp AG and the metal industry union (IG Metall) have agreed to continue the basic agreement for the strategic further development of the group. The aim is to strengthen the competitiveness of the individual business areas and at the same time secure employment and locations in the long term.
“The extension of the basic agreement is an important success in uncertain times. It creates security for employees and guarantees co-determination in the upcoming restructuring of the group,” explains Jürgen Kerner, Second Chairman of IG Metall. “Especially in view of the upcoming restructuring, it is crucial that employees are included on an equal footing and that their interests are fairly taken into account. The new basic agreement is the basis for this.”
Tekin Nasikkol, Chairman of the Group Works Council, emphasizes: “This agreement is more than just paper – it is a protective shield for our colleagues. It gives us the stability we need to shape the coming changes in the group together and fairly.”
“Our members and colleagues fought for this with commitment and showed their faces. Under the motto “People at the center”, they provided information about it at the locations, started actions and made it clear that it was a concern for all employees in the group,” adds Daniela Jansen, IG Metall group representative for thyssenkrupp AG.
Key points of the basic agreement:
Strategic realignment
• The Board of Directors plans to gradually develop all business areas into independent companies under the umbrella of thyssenkrupp AG.
• The prerequisite for independence is economic success and capital market capability.
• The aim is to create an independent structure for the Steel segment.
• Implementation of the target image: Period of three to five years.
Employment security and social compatibility
• Redundancies for operational reasons remain the “last resort”.
• Restructuring and cost reductions are carried out while maintaining socially acceptable solutions and legal protection rights.
• Collective and company agreements are adhered to; Any necessary adjustments will be made by mutual agreement.
Changes in the ownership structure
• Collaborations with external partners and possible share transfers are planned.
• Before any significant changes are made, a best/fair owner process is carried out with IG Metall to ensure transparency and job security.
Cost reduction program and performance increase
• Continuation of the group-wide performance program APEX to increase efficiency.
• The priority should be to reduce material costs; Personnel adjustments only if necessary and in a socially acceptable manner.
Investments and future prospects
• Independent business areas should have sufficient financial resources.
• Investments in locations and facilities as well as reliable prospects for employees are central criteria.
Training and further education
• Strengthening the corporate labor market (KAM) as an instrument for human resources policy and transformation.
• High take-on rate after training remains the goal; Cross-segment quality standards will be continued.
Duration: The agreement is valid until September 30, 2028.