Opel schließt Werkzeugladen in Rüsselsheim.

Opel, a subsidiary of Stellantis, is facing further downsizing as the company plans to close the tool shop at its main plant in Rüsselsheim, Germany. This decision will affect approximately 260 jobs, sparking resistance from employees and the works council who aim to defend against the layoffs. Despite previous announcements, Opel has now confirmed the closure of the toolmaking department at the Rüsselsheim plant by the end of the year. This move comes as part of a series of job cuts that have been taking place since Stellantis emerged from the merger of PSA and Fiat-Chrysler at the beginning of the year.

The closure of the tool shop is seen as a breach of contract, as just four months ago, the company had promised to maintain around 160 jobs in the division. In addition, investment promises from a future collective agreement with IG Metall have not been fulfilled. Opel is now attempting to persuade employees to leave the company as part of agreements with the union. The company claims to have taken all necessary measures to balance capacity utilization and staffing needs in the tool shop and is engaging in talks with the works council to address the situation. Opel management had previously announced growth plans and increased market share in Germany to over 6.7 percent.

The dispute at Opel stems from a 2020 agreement with employee representatives to produce the Astra compact car at the Rüsselsheim plant and extend protection against employee dismissal. In exchange, the works council and union agreed to cut up to 2,100 jobs in Germany by the end of 2021 through voluntary measures. However, finding volunteers for these job cuts has been a challenge, leading to increased pressure from Opel management in recent months. This development has raised concerns among employees and the works council as they oppose the downsizing efforts taking place at the company.