Frankfurt am Main/Essen – thyssenkrupp AG and the Industrial Union of Metalworkers (IG Metall) have agreed to extend the framework agreement on the strategic development of the Group. The goal is to strengthen the competitiveness of the individual business units while securing jobs and locations in the long term.
“The extension of the framework agreement is an important success in uncertain times. It provides security for employees and guarantees their right to have a say in the Group’s upcoming restructuring,” explains Jürgen Kerner, Second Chairman of IG Metall. “Especially in light of the upcoming restructuring, it is crucial that employees are involved as equals and that their interests are fairly taken into account. The new framework agreement lays the foundation for this.”
Tekin Nasikkol, Chair of the Group Works Council, emphasizes: “This agreement is more than just a piece of paper—it’s a shield for our colleagues. It gives us the stability we need to shape the upcoming changes within the Group together and fairly.”
“Our members and colleagues fought hard for this and stood their ground. Under the motto ‘People First,’ they provided information at the various locations, launched campaigns, and made it clear that this is a concern for all employees in the Group,” adds Daniela Jansen, IG Metall’s Group Representative for thyssenkrupp AG.
Key points of the framework agreement:
Strategic realignment
• The Executive Board plans to gradually develop all business units into independent companies under the umbrella of thyssenkrupp AG.
• Economic success and capital market viability are prerequisites for independence.
• The goal is for the Steel segment to become an independent entity.
• Implementation of the target vision: a timeframe of three to five years.
Job Security and Social Responsibility
• Layoffs for operational reasons remain a “last resort.”
• Restructuring and cost-cutting measures will be carried out in a manner that ensures socially responsible solutions and compliance with statutory protections.
• Collective bargaining agreements and company-level agreements will be honored; necessary adjustments will be made by mutual agreement.
Changes in Ownership Structure
• Cooperation with external partners and potential transfers of ownership interests are planned.
• Prior to any significant change, a “Best/Fair Owner” process will be conducted with IG Metall to ensure transparency and job security.
Cost-Cutting Program and Performance Improvement
• Continuation of the Group-wide APEX performance program to increase efficiency.
• The priority is to reduce operating expenses; workforce adjustments will be made only as needed and in a socially responsible manner.
Investments and Future Outlook
• Independent business units should have sufficient financial resources.
• Investments in locations and facilities, as well as reliable prospects for employees, are key criteria.
Training and Continuing Education
• Strengthening the Group Labor Market (KAM) as a tool for human resources policy and transformation.
• A high retention rate following apprenticeship remains the goal; cross-segment quality standards will continue to be maintained.
Term: The agreement is valid through September 30, 2028.
