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New collective agreement in the metal industry: wages will rise from 2026!
New collective agreement for the metal industry in Austria: wage increases and stabilization in challenging times from 2026.
New collective agreement in the metal industry: wages will rise from 2026!
On October 29, 2025, an agreement was reached on a new collective agreement (KV) for employees in the metal industry in Austria. This agreement, which applies from January 1, 2026, is intended to contribute to the stabilization of the business location. Negotiator Manfred Denk, chairman of the Federal Division of Trade and Crafts in the WKÖ, emphasized the challenges facing the industry, especially in view of energy prices, inflation and international competition, which affect competitiveness.
The new collective agreement brings with it a moderate wage increase for around 98,000 employees in 50,000 employer companies. ACTUAL salaries will increase by 1.8% in 2026 and 2027, with a maximum increase of 95 euros per month in 2026 and 100 euros per month in 2027. The KV salaries will be increased by 2.2% and 2.0% in the two years.
Details on wage increases and minimum wages
In addition to the general wage increases, an increase in apprentice income is also set. In 2026, incomes for apprentices will rise by 2.2% and in the following year by 2.0%. The minimum basic wages, valid from January 1, 2026, are as follows:
| professional group | Minimum basic wage |
|---|---|
| technician | €4,160.28 |
| Pay group 1 | €3,808.83 |
| Pay group 2 | €3,397.52 |
| Pay group 3 | €2,948.85 |
| Pay group 4 | €2,759.39 |
| Pay group 5 | €2,627.28 |
| Pay group 6 | €2,571.94 |
| Pay group 7 | €2,571.94 |
The rolling inflation on which the negotiations were based was 2.82%, which also influenced the increase in allowances and mileage allowance from January 1, 2026. For example, the mileage allowance is increased in stages, with the first level being 0.500 euros per kilometer up to 10,000 km. The KV allowances for short, medium and long distances as well as the night work allowance have also been increased.
Outlook and further framework conditions
The agreements must be announced by January 30, 2026 and a letter of intent is required by February 13, 2026. There is also provision for apprentices to cover the costs of the Climate Ticket Austria of up to 1,050 euros in 2026. There is also the option of agreeing paid time off instead of a wage increase.
The Federal Guild Master of Metal Technicians, Harald Schinnerl, emphasized that affordable wage increases are necessary for companies in order to successfully overcome the challenges that the industry is currently facing. The agreement with PRO-GE on this collective agreement was reached on October 24, 2025 and marks a step in the right direction in the current economic situation.