The leader of the IG Metall trade union, Christiane Benner, has voiced strong criticism regarding Tesla’s approach to labor relations in Germany. In an interview with “Welt” Benner alleged that Tesla management is employing strategies, reminiscent of practices seen in the United States, which she characterized as deliberate efforts to undermine unionization. She stated the company appears actively opposed to employees choosing to join IG Metall.
Benner refuted suggestions that IG Metall representatives at Tesla’s Grünheide plant are acting as agents for established German automotive manufacturers. Describing such claims as “an absurd fantasy of a billionaire” she further pointed to emerging customer demonstrations, with some Tesla owners visibly expressing dissent regarding the company’s leadership direction.
A key concern raised by Benner is a perceived lack of engagement and transparency from Tesla’s management regarding the company’s economic performance. She reported that employees’ inquiries about the company’s financial health are not being adequately addressed during factory meetings.
Despite these challenges, IG Metall remains committed to securing a collective bargaining agreement at Tesla. Benner emphasized the union’s readiness for a protracted struggle, citing the lengthy period it took to achieve a similar agreement with US-based Ford in the 1970s. The union anticipates a difficult, but resolvable, negotiation process.