MAN in Salzgitter: New works council heads stand up for the workforce!

MAN in Salzgitter: New works council heads stand up for the workforce!

In Salzgitter the signs point to a storm. The reports about current developments at MAN are causing concern among employees. On November 11, 2025, Hüseyin Uc was confirmed as works council chairman and Andrea Deiana as deputy chairman of IG Metall in Salzgitter. Both have long professional careers at MAN and are strongly committed to the interests of employees. Uc, who started at MAN in Salzgitter in 1986 and has worked as a shop steward since the 1990s, emphasizes the responsibility they bear as works council members, not only for the workforce, but also for the region in which MAN plays a central role. Deiana, who started his training at MAN in 1994, also brings a wealth of experience with him, both from his time in the youth representation and in various works council committees.

But the positive news from the works council election is overshadowed by alarming developments. “Red alert” is what IG Metall and the works council are proclaiming regarding MAN’s new plans. The discussion revolves around measures described by IG Metall as “clear-cutting plans”, which not only endanger the jobs of employees, but could also result in deeper cuts in the regional economic structure. Massive job losses and the closure of entire production lines are planned, while highly specialized areas such as axle assembly and tube production are to be withdrawn, while crankshaft production will initially be retained, but will be phased out gradually by 2032.

The concerns of the workforce

The workforce's concerns are not unfounded: a decline in training needs and purchasing power could have serious consequences for the region. IG Metall warns, in particular, of negative effects on the infrastructure and social structure in Salzgitter. Works council head Uc warns that the industrial substance of the site will be gradually dismantled. A sustainable concept that includes both investment commitments and job security is required. “We do not demand any spin-offs, no tariff dumping and no outsourcing,” is Uc’s clear statement. In addition, IG Metall is planning transparent communication and mobilization of the workforce in order to consolidate the path we have taken together.

The choice of Uc and Deiana is seen as an unmistakable sign of strong commitment in difficult times. Both works councils are determined to protect the interests of employees and fulfill their responsibilities as central employers in this contested phase. “We see the plans as controlled shrinkage, which will ultimately result not only in job losses, but also in an emptying of the region,” Uc expresses concern. A concrete future concept is therefore urgently needed in order to effectively meet the challenges.

For the MAN employees in Salzgitter, it remains to be seen how developments in the company will develop. The new works council leadership is determined to act as a mouthpiece for the workforce and to advocate for their rights and perspectives.