Major car importers are participating in the protest and strike. In an unusual step, similar to the one taken in March 2023 as part of the fight against the judicial reform, several importers will shut down their operations tomorrow, except for handling emergency cases.
Among the prominent striking companies is Colmobil, the largest car importer in Israel, which markets Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Mercedes, Genesis, Ora, Smart, and JAC brands. "Colmobil is joining the decision of the Histadrut and the Forum of Companies to strike, in solidarity with the families of the kidnapped and to make space for their pain and the pain of all of us."
The service centers, showrooms, and call centers will only handle urgent cases. "We hope for the quick return of the kidnapped and for better days ahead."
Delek Motors, the importer of BMW, NIO, Mazda, Mini, and Ford, will also strike, as will the importer Semel, which brings Alfa Romeo, WEY, Fiat, Ram, Jeep, Maserati, Ferrari, Subaru, and Abarth. In a message to employees, Semel CEO Shay Feldman stated: "Following the unfortunate events and as a show of support for the families of the kidnapped, the business forum has decided to join the call and strike tomorrow, hoping that the outcry will lead to progress in bringing the kidnapped back. Therefore, the company's headquarters and showrooms will remain closed and will not operate on 2.9.24. The emergency operational sites will remain open for emergencies only."
Champion Motors, the importer of Volkswagen, Skoda, SEAT, Cupra, and Audi, will also shut down its showrooms, but will continue to operate its service systems and new car deliveries as usual. Shlomo Motors, the importer of BYD, will reduce the activity of its showrooms and delivery centers and will allow employees who wish to participate in the protest to do so without taking vacation days.
From the Meir Group, the importer of Honda, Volvo, Lynk & Co, and Polestar, it was announced: "Out of solidarity with the kidnapped and their families and as a call to decision-makers to immediately reach a deal to bring the kidnapped home alive, the Meir Group will join the strike declared in the economy on September 2, 2024. The group will strike from activity, except for Kavim - public transportation and car service centers. The company encourages employees to go out and show support for the families of the kidnapped and to join the call to promote a deal for their release."
Other importers, including Telcar, Lubinski, Machshirei Tnua, Geo Mobility, and others, are not halting operations but are partially reducing them and, in any case, will allow employees who wish to participate in the protest to do so without using vacation days.