Audi has confirmed that it will stop assembling cars at its Brussels plant after a year. Factory workers are protesting against this.
The employees of the Audi Forest plant in Brussels are seriously worried about their future. The Volkswagen concern, which includes the Audi car company, has announced that after 2025, the main model of the Q8 e-tron electric crossover will not be produced at the Brussels plant. confirmed.
The union believes the decision will mean the factory’s closure. More than three thousand employees may be laid off. The same fate awaits subcontractors. On August 4, factory workers did not go to work in protest. People are disappointed.
“what do we feel I am angry about what is happening, about the decision to close the factory. I wish there were other ways to save it… But we don’t believe it.’ said Audi subcontractor Joaquin Malpica. He has been working at the plant since 2006.
Management insists closing the plant is not on the agenda and that other options are being explored.
According to Peter D’Hoor, official representative of the Audi Forest plant, there are several other options, acceptable solutions.
“For example, we can undertake specific projects that can be implemented here. For example, we can consider the possibility of producing parts for other factories. We are also in talks with potential investors and plan to meet with them when the situation is clear. But I can’t say anything for sure yet.” he said.
Volkswagen is a leading European automobile concern. This week, the group announced plans to cut costs. For the first time in its nearly 90-year history, the company plans to close two factories in Germany and lay off workers to cope with competition in a tough economic environment.
Trade union representative Pascal Debrull spoke about moving Audi production to Mexico:
“Sales opportunities in Mexico and the US are much higher. Labor is cheaper. They don’t have import taxes like in the US. That’s why we’re openly moving production because 50% of estimated future sales will be in America.”
A large demonstration of Audi workers is planned for Monday, September 16 in Brussels. It is expected that representatives of the trade unions of the German concern Volkswagen will also join the event.
