Volkswagen is holding “crunch” talks on Thursday as its controlling groups and management consider a major restructuring plan that would cut up to 100,000 jobs and close four factories in Germany. Multiple outlets report that the proposals are presented to the company’s supervisory board for formal consideration, marking a key test of the plan.
Ahead of the meeting, unions and workers protest against the overhaul at Volkswagen sites across Germany. The Guardian reports demonstrations planned at all plants, involving staff representatives and union officials connected to IG Metall, including activities at the company’s headquarters. Euronews also notes union protests in response to potential mass job cuts.
The articles describe pressure on Volkswagen’s position in Europe’s auto market, including high costs and excess capacity in Germany, intensified competition from China, and the effect of US import tariffs. The plan is therefore framed as a response to both market and cost challenges, while employees seek changes or revisions to avoid large-scale layoffs and closures.
