Audi Strengthens Global Solidarity During the COVID-19 Crisis
Audi’s Humanitarian and Social Support Initiatives
During times of crisis, global solidarity becomes more vital than ever. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Audi actively supported medical and social institutions at its regional headquarters and provided humanitarian aid both locally and internationally. The company allocated a substantial emergency fund of five million euros to help combat the pandemic. This relief package was launched by the Audi Group's Board of Management and the Works Council in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm.
Protecting Employees and Communities
Due to the outbreak of the coronavirus and the need to minimize risks to employees, partners, and guests, the Audi Group decided not to hold its annual press conference. Bram Schot, CEO of Audi Group, stated, "We are facing exceptional circumstances where proven solutions or simple formulas are not enough. Our primary objective is to protect our employees, partners, and guests, and make the right decisions to support our business in these uncertain times." The company had already shut down its factories in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm, Belgium, Mexico, and Hungary according to strict guidelines by the end of that week.
Leadership Perspectives on the COVID-19 Challenge
Markus Duesmann, Audi Group’s new Chairman of the Board of Management, who took office on April 1, commented, "The spread of the coronavirus pandemic presents immense challenges worldwide, affecting both our company and society as a whole. I want to thank all Audi employees who are looking ahead, fulfilling their responsibilities, and providing support in these difficult times. I also extend my gratitude to everyone managing our operations globally. I am confident that these measures will continue to benefit Audi employees even after the crisis ends. For now, our focus is on protecting the health of our employees, their families, and our communities. We must work together to limit the spread of infection."
Encouraging Employee Participation and Social Responsibility
Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council at Audi Group, added, "We are eager to help address the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Each of us wants to contribute to ensuring a secure future after this crisis. Through our donations, we are fulfilling our responsibilities toward the communities where we operate." Audi employees who wish to participate and support these efforts can submit their suggestions and inquiries via the company’s dedicated employee email. Dr. Ute Röding, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Audi, commented, "Colleagues in Neckarsulm and Ingolstadt can send us their ideas, which are reviewed and evaluated immediately. We have already responded to the initial inquiries we received."
Donations and Community Initiatives Worldwide
The first major installment of cash donations is currently being issued. On Monday, March 30, the Audi Group donated 600,000 euros to hospitals in its main locations, Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm—part of the total five million euro relief fund. In Ingolstadt, Audi launched the "Local Race – A Week for Ingolstadt" challenge through the digital operations center in the Ingolstadt area and IFG Ingolstadt, encouraging participants to submit ideas online between April 1 and April 7 to help the city overcome the crisis.
Audi Group branches around the world are also supporting local populations through various measures, including providing medical equipment through Audi branches in Brussels and China. Additionally, Audi's branch in Hungary will donate funds to Győr Hospital. More initiatives are being planned across all Audi locations to further strengthen community support.
