German metalworkers continue warning strikes over wages, job security

Metal and electrical industry workers in Germany's southwestern state of Baden-Wurttemberg continued warning strikes Tuesday over wages and job security, German newspaper Welt reported.

Employees gathered in Stuttgart's Feuerbach district, including workers from technology company Bosch, following walkouts at several locations Monday.

IG Metall Stuttgart estimated that around 1,000 employees attended the joint rally.

Workers at automotive supplier Mahle were also called to participate, although a company spokesperson said operations had not been disrupted.

Monday's industrial action included walkouts at medical technology company Aesculap in Tuttlingen, according to the union.

The strikes followed two rounds of collective bargaining that failed to produce an agreement.

IG Metall is demanding a 5% wage increase over 12 months, along with guarantees for jobs and production sites.

During the second round of talks, employers offered a one-time payment next year and a 1.3% wage increase from July 2028, citing difficult economic conditions and high costs facing German industry.

Negotiations are scheduled to resume Thursday in Ludwigsburg.

"We will not be fobbed off with a sham," said Barbara Resch, IG Metall's district manager.

She said genuine job security could not be achieved at employees' expense or by weakening collective bargaining standards.

"Thursday will reveal whether the employers are truly committed to making a genuine contribution to the future of jobs in Baden-Württemberg," Resch said.