Hope for 400 jobs: Gestra stays in Bremen - no job cuts!

Hope for 400 jobs: Gestra stays in Bremen - no job cuts!

In a positive turnaround for the employees at Gestra in Bremen, positive developments are emerging. The company, known for its production ofvalves, valves and control systems for power plants, has agreed on a new production process together with IG Metall. This agreement is particularly noteworthy because it was originally planned to cut 80 of the 400 jobs. But the decision not to relocate production abroad is now emerging as a real strengthening for the workforce. Buten and inland reports that there will be no further job cuts, apart from an already agreed volunteer program.

IG Metall managing director Ute Buggeln highlights the long and intensive effort of the workforce, which lasted seven months and ultimately led to this agreement. The solidarity of the employees has played a crucial role in this, as was evident at the last works meeting, where the employees had to agree to the agreement. This raises the question: What happens next? The climb to the labor market peak has apparently borne fruit.

What is Valves?

But what are valves actually? The term originally stands for a high-quality, woven cotton fabric that was registered in 1995 and has its origins in the work of scientists at the Shirley Institute in Manchester. The fabric was developed to overcome a shortage of flax for fire hoses and water tanks. Wikipedia explains that valves are also considered very useful for pilots' survival suits, but have been criticized for their cost and leaking properties when in contact with sweat or oils.

Particularly noteworthy is the specific production of the fabric from extra-long cotton fibers (ELS), which offer outstanding strength. In addition, Ventile is breathable, durable and provides 100% weather protection. The material is used not only in military uniforms, but also in medical clothing and work clothing.

Securing employment at Gestra

The agreement between Gestra and IG Metall also shows the need for job security measures. Employment security means all forms of securing jobs through company or collective agreements, such as IG Metall explained. In the current situation, it could make sense to resort to “soft” regulations, which include, for example, short-time work or reduced working hours in order to avoid dismissals. Such measures could help the company not only retain employees, but also respond strategically to market challenges.

All in all, the agreement brings hope for a secure working future for Gestra employees. It shows that a lot can be achieved through commitment and solidarity - and perhaps this is the start of a stable economic future for the company. It remains exciting to see what the next steps and the approval of the workforce will be.