Audi has taken a decisive step toward securing its long-term competitiveness and future viability amid increasing industry challenges. In a historic agreement between management and employee representatives, the company has outlined a roadmap focused on efficiency, profitability, and a smooth transition to electric mobility—while ensuring job security for employees until 2033.
Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management, hailed the agreement as a “clear victory for Audi,” stating that it lays the foundation for a strategic reorganization of the company. With an investment of €8 billion in German production sites, the automaker is strengthening operations in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm, making them more adaptable to the evolving automotive landscape.
Balancing Workforce Adjustments with Stability
Acknowledging the need for structural changes, Döllner emphasized that Audi must become faster, more agile, and more efficient—which necessitates personnel adjustments. However, he assured that no layoffs due to operational reasons will take place until the end of 2033, providing much-needed stability in uncertain economic times.
Xavier Ros, Board Member for Human Resources, described the agreement as a breakthrough, highlighting the collaborative approach between management and employee representatives. “Some measures will involve cutbacks, but they are crucial to avoiding redundancies,” Ros noted, reaffirming Audi’s commitment to a socially responsible transition.
Employee Contributions to Transformation
Jörg Schlagbauer, Chairman of the General Works Council, assured employees that collectively agreed wages and internal benefits will remain intact, with planned wage increases taking effect as scheduled in April 2025 and April 2026. However, a temporary reduction and restructuring of Audi’s profit-sharing program will require employees to contribute financially to the company’s stability—an investment Schlagbauer described as securing Audi’s long-term future.
At Neckarsulm, Audi is setting up a “future fund” to develop new production platforms for upcoming electric models. The site is also slated to become an AI and digitalization hub for the entire Audi Group, focusing on advancements in production technology.
A Unified Vision for the Future
Rainer Schirmer, Vice Chairman of the General Works Council, praised the cooperative efforts between Audi’s sites and labor unions, stating that the joint approach ensured key workforce protections while future-proofing operations.
With a bold investment strategy, workforce security, and a clear shift towards electrification and digitalization, Audi is paving the way for its next phase of transformation—ensuring the four rings remain a symbol of innovation and resilience in the automotive industry.
