Recent warning strikes led by the Verdi union have significantly disrupted operations at Deutsche Post and other sectors, affecting parcel and mail deliveries across Germany. With estimates indicating that 25% of parcels and 10% of letters remain undelivered, the impact on customers has been palpable. Verdi is advocating for a 7% wage increase alongside additional vacation days for approximately 170,000 employees, including postal workers and logistics staff. However, the company has countered with a considerably lower offer, citing declining mail volumes and pressing investment needs.
The strike has seen participation from thousands of employees, with reports of around 6,000 in delivery and 3,000 at parcel centers joining the action. The union argues that the employers' proposals do not keep pace with inflation, leading to real wage losses for workers. Further negotiations are anticipated, as both sides remain entrenched in their positions.
Beyond Deutsche Post, Verdi's influence extends to various sectors, including airports and public transportation, where strikes have also caused substantial disruptions. The union continues to advocate for improved pay and working conditions, reflecting a broader struggle for fair compensation across multiple industries. As labor disputes unfold, they reignite discussions around the right to strike and its implications for public services. The next round of negotiations is expected to take place in early March, as both parties seek to resolve these ongoing conflicts.
