Purpose: Some industries whose products are considered to have a negative effect on health and environment, are categorized as controversial industries. Empirical studies in such studies have not been widely carried out. Design/methodology/approach: This study was carried out in a controversial industry to examine the level of employee collectivism in the face of various challenges in this industry. The number of samples is 150 people, with the method of non purposive random sampling. Respondents were taken from several cigarette factories in Kudus. The method of analysis in this study is the multiple linear regression analysis, with SSPS testing reliability and validity, correlation, hypothesis testing, simultaneous effect and the coefficient of determination. Findings: The results demonstrate that in this industry, employees are trying to increase collectivism to strengthen solidarity in the workplace. Practical Implications: This findings can be used implementatively for management to improve the elements supporting the strengthening of employee commitment and increasing collectivism in the workplace. Theoretically, this finding is useful to know more about industrial relations and human resource management in controversial industries. Originality/value: The study examines how individual commitments can unite employees to continue working in controversial industries, and whether individual commitment can strengthen fellow employee relations.