Wage Disputes in German Industries

Recent collective bargaining negotiations in Germany's metal and electrical industry have become a focal point of labor discussions. Employers offered a 3.6% wage increase over 27 months for more than 130,000 workers in Northwest Germany, alongside a one-time payment and additional leave days. However, the union, IG Metall, demanded a 7% salary hike and a 170€ increase for trainees, advocating for a shorter contract duration of 12 months. They argue that the proposed wage increase fails to counteract inflation and maintain workers' purchasing power.

Similarly, in Bavaria, employers proposed a 3.6% wage increase for 870,000 workers. Yet, IG Metall insists this offer is insufficient to boost economic activity or strengthen purchasing power. The union suggests that without a substantial improvement in the offer, potential strikes could follow the expiration of the peace obligation on October 28.

In parallel, the confectionery industry faces its own wage disputes. The NGG union is demanding a 9.9% salary increase, while employers have countered with a 2.8% offer. With negotiations at a standstill, 2,000 workers in Berlin's confectionery sector have been called to a 16-hour warning strike.

Across these industries, the central theme is the tension between unions demanding higher wages to match living costs and employers citing economic difficulties as a reason for modest offers. The ongoing negotiations highlight the broader struggle to balance employee compensation with economic sustainability in challenging times.