Support Promised for Stadler's Berlin Operations Amid Workforce Cuts

The future of Stadler's manufacturing facility in Berlin-Pankow is currently uncertain, as the company has announced significant cost-cutting measures that could include job losses and a partial closure of the plant. In response to these developments, Berlin's governing mayor has stepped in to advocate for the company's employees and the site's sustainability.

On a recent visit to the Pankow site, the mayor engaged in discussions with representatives from Stadler, the labor union, and the works council. The primary objective articulated during these discussions was to secure the long-term viability of the facility and to protect the jobs of its staff. The mayor underscored the commitment to work collaboratively with the works council and the union to devise sustainable solutions that would benefit both the company and its workforce.

According to the union, the mayor's visit was prompted by the troubling news surrounding the potential layoffs and partial closure of the site. The union has made it clear that negotiations regarding the preservation of the site will only commence once there is an official confirmation from the management regarding the proposed workforce reductions.

Stadler's management has remained tight-lipped about the discussions with the mayor and union representatives. Earlier this week, during a company meeting, they had signaled drastic measures to cut costs, prompting the labor union to organize a rally to support the 1,700 employees in Berlin. Hundreds of workers participated, voicing their concerns outside the manufacturing facility located on Heinz-Brandt-Straße.

In the wake of these developments, both the company and local government officials have reassured that ongoing and future projects will not be adversely affected. The local managing director emphasized that the proposed measures would not influence the current contracts, including the provision of new subway trains for Berlin's public transport system. The transport senator also expressed confidence that Stadler would meet its contractual obligations.

The union has called for the full delivery of 1,500 subway cars as stipulated in the framework agreement, rather than settling for the minimum order of 606 cars, with 484 cars already ordered for delivery by 2027. The Pankow facility is crucial for the production and assembly of Stadler's entire product range for the German market, including streetcars and light rail vehicles for export.