Question: BMW the case continues - ‘today for tomorrow'

The BMW group is aware of demographic changes in the workforce where the birth rate in many Western countries has consistently been lower than the number of deaths, while life expectancy has continued to rise. This aging workforce affects nations' social security systems and businesses. BMW has formed a project called ‘today for tomorrow' to help the group adapt to changing demographics, through five areas:

· design of the working environment: ergonomically designed work stations in offices and manufacturing to help avoid physical strain;

· health management and preventive healthcare: gyms and fitness courses are available at all plant locations;

· needs-based retirement models: flexible retirement packages that allow individuals to retire early or continue after the age of 65;

· qualifications and skills: the increasing importance of life-long learning communications:

· increase awareness of social and corporate changes among managers and associates.

Case questions:

· What benefits might BMW gain from a higher proportion of older workers?

· What do you think are the problems associated with an older workforce?

· How might human resource practices change as a result of an older workforce?