The German trade union Verdi has initiated a series of warning strikes at several Deutsche Post parcel and mail centers, significantly impacting parcel deliveries. These strikes are part of an ongoing collective bargaining dispute, with Verdi demanding a 7% pay rise and additional vacation days for employees. The strikes have led to a backlog, affecting 25% of parcels and 10% of letters, as Deutsche Post grapples with declining mail volumes and substantial investment needs.
Deutsche Post has proposed a modest pay increase of 1.8% from July, rising to 2% by October 2026, along with one extra vacation day for two-thirds of the workforce. However, Verdi's demands remain unmet, prompting continued industrial action. The strikes have seen substantial participation from over 3,300 workers across various regions, including Bremen, Hannover, and Krefeld.
The dispute extends beyond the postal sector, with Verdi also organizing strikes at major airports in Munich and Hamburg. These strikes, affecting security and aircraft handling staff, resulted in widespread flight cancellations, disrupting travel plans significantly.
Furthermore, the union is advocating for better pay and conditions in the public sector, leading to nationwide strikes by apprentices and dual students. Their demands include an 8% salary increase, improved training allowances, and guaranteed employment upon completion.
As negotiations continue, both parties prepare for the next round of talks in early March 2025, hoping to resolve the deadlock. The ongoing strikes highlight the growing tension between labor demands and employer constraints, underscoring the broader challenges in balancing worker rights with economic realities.
