The BMW Group Plant Munich recently celebrated its 100th anniversary with two eventful days filled with exciting activities. Despite not producing any cars during this time, the plant welcomed around 70,000 visitors including employees, their friends, and family. The anniversary celebrations featured a captivating stage program, thrilling driving events, and exclusive insights into the production process.
In his speech, Milan Nedeljković, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Production, expressed gratitude to the employees for their dedication and emphasized their role in bringing success to the plant. Plant Munich is currently undergoing extensive renovations in preparation for the production of the Neue Klasse in 2026. This includes the construction of three new buildings for the body shop, assembly, and logistics areas. Nedeljković also stressed the remarkable ability of the employees to keep the plant running smoothly despite the ongoing changes.
During the anniversary celebrations, more than one thousand volunteers from all BMW locations in Munich demonstrated great dedication and contributed to the smooth operation of the event. These volunteers generously donated their time, which was then converted into a cash donation of 150,000 euros for five Munich-based charities. Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, People and Real Estate, praised the employees for their extraordinary commitment and highlighted the responsible behavior of BMW as an employer.
Representatives from the charities expressed their gratitude as they received the donation vouchers in person from Horstmeier, Plant Manager Peter Weber, and Martin Kimmich, Chairman of the General Works Council. Furthermore, to represent the transformation of Plant Munich, a time capsule was filled by the Member of the Board for Production, Plant Manager, and Works Council Chair. This capsule will be integrated into the construction area of the new body shop.
The BMW employees themselves organized most of the anniversary celebrations, showcasing their diverse talents through various performances and activities. A former employee of Plant Munich, Willy Astor, entertained the visitors with his comedy and music show. Other popular attractions included shows by the “RedBull Driftbrothers,” a children’s motorcycle course, driving sessions from the BMW Driving Academy, and a variety of culinary delights from food trucks and the plant’s own restaurant.
Martin Kimmich, Chairman of the BMW General Works Council, commended the efforts of the workforce in creating such an impressive event. He highlighted the unique team spirit and the employees’ commitment to social responsibility. As an essential employer in Munich, the plant welcomed around 80 neighbors who were given a guided tour of the site to foster good relations and maintain open dialogue with the local community.
The plant also plays an integral role in the future development of Munich, as demonstrated by the “BMW Munich – Urban Production” architectural competition. The winning designs aim to make the plant more accessible and improve relations with the neighborhood, setting the stage for future plans beyond 2026. These plans align with the principles of the BMW iFactory, focusing on being lean, green, and digital.
Although the anniversary celebrations took place in Plant Munich’s 101st year, due to uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was planned during the plant’s 100th year.