Germany's IG Metall union expanded strike action across the metal and electrical engineering industries as negotiations over a new wage agreement remained unresolved. The dispute affects approximately 3.7 million workers, including employees at Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Tata Steel. The union is demanding a 5% wage increase, stronger job protections, and profit-sharing arrangements, while rejecting an employer proposal that would delay raises until 2028. Additional strikes are expected throughout the week as unions increase pressure on employers to improve their offer.
See "German metal workers step up strikes in pay dispute", Reuters Staff, Reuters, November 2, 2026