Conti employees want their say in plans to split the group

Frankfurt, Germany – The IGBCE trade union and worker representatives have issued a statement* on Continental AG’s plans for a possible split of the group and spin-off of its automotive sector business. 

"Continental's decision to consider a spin-off of the automotive sector is, after many detours, the last exit before the dead end, said the joint statement published 6 Aug. 

“The top priority now must be to show employees clear perspectives and reliable goals as quickly as possible,” the workforce representatives added.  

The statement called for “functioning business models and a solid capital base” to support investment in innovation and secure jobs across all parts of the company. 

These elements “are important signals not only for investors, but above all for employees… [who] bear the burden of restructuring,” the release continued.

Describing collective bargaining and ‘comprehensive co-determination’ as “crucial prerequisites for the further process,” the employee reps insisted: “There must be no regression behind the status quo. 

“For years, employee representatives at all levels have made comprehensive proposals for the future of the company. They must now be heard." 

On 5 Aug, Continental has announced plans to conduct a detailed evaluation on spinning off its ‘automotive group sector’: dividing the group into two independent companies.

Following the detailed evaluation, the executive board said it would make a decision, by the year-end, on the spin-off, which would be completed by the end of 2025 (ERJ report).

*The statement was issued by: Christiane Benner, first chairwoman of IG Metall and deputy chairwoman of the supervisory board at Continental, Francesco Grioli, member of the executive board of IGBCE and of the Continental supervisory board, and Hasan Allak, chairman of the group works council and member of the supervisory board of Continental AG.