Volkswagen sold more sausages than cars in 2024. Say what!
What's the story
In a surprising revelation, renowned automobile manufacturer Volkswagen sold more sausages than cars in 2024.
The unexpected twist in Volkswagen's sales figures comes as a result of a 2% increase in sausage sales as opposed to a fall in car shipments.
The German giant sold an impressive 8.5 million sausages while delivering only 5.2 million vehicles last year.
Tradition
Sausages: A staple since 1973
Sausages have been part of Volkswagen's culture since 1973 when the company began serving currywurst to its employees at its Wolfsburg headquarters.
Now, these sausages have come a long way from being a simple worker's treat to a mass-market product.
Today, meat lovers in as many as 12 countries can buy Volkswagen Original sausages at football stadiums, supermarkets, etc.
Market shift
Culinary success amid automotive challenges
Despite a tough year for its car business, Volkswagen's culinary success continues to flourish. The company sold 654,000 bottles of its spiced ketchup last year.
The gastronomic feat comes at a time when the IG Metall Union representing VW employees has pointed out the contrasting trends in car and sausage sales.
After tough negotiations, an agreement was reached for up to 35,000 future job cuts due to an uncertain business outlook.
Business outlook
Volkswagen's profit drop and future plans
Volkswagen's net profit fell by 30% last year, mainly due to a slowdown in sales in China where local carmakers are gaining ground with cheaper EVs.
The company intends to halve its auto production capacity in Germany by 2030.
In light of Germany's increased defense spending, Volkswagen is also mulling converting two of its closed auto plants into arms manufacturing facilities.