Founded in 2009 at the Mercedes plant in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, the Zentrum has struggled to gain traction, as highlighted by IG Metall chairperson Benner, who noted that claims of a rightward shift in workplaces are unfounded. In a recent election at a VW plant in Zwickau, IG Metall secured 29 out of 35 mandates, despite ongoing concerns from Baden-Württemberg district leader Resch regarding the increasing politicization of workplace environments.