Unions Sauer: No result in a collective agreement negotiation!

Unions Sauer: No result in a collective agreement negotiation!

Schwechat, Österreich - On April 30, 2025, the third collective agreement negotiation for the 60,000 employees of the electrical and electronics industry was interrupted without any results. The Pro-GE and GPA unions were disappointed with the offer of employers, which only provides for a wage increase of 1 percent. In view of an inflation rate of 2.76 percent, which reflects the general price situation, the unions consider this offer to be disrespectful and inadequate. The representatives of the unions emphasize that there is definitely money for manager bonuses and dividends, but not for the inflation compensation for employees.

The discussion about wages is intensified by the unions. On May 7th, a decision about further measures will be made in Schwechat. In advance, the unions already warn of possible conflicts and trade union measures that could be taken in the event of a continuation of the misunderstandings.

demands of the unions

The unions call for a fair wage and salary increase that is based on the inflation rate. In addition, they require an increase in shift allowances: 1.50 euros for the second and 5 euros for the third shift. The easier accessibility of the sixth holiday week and the securing of leisure options are also on the agenda. A new collective agreement, for which many employees hope, should actually come into force a day later, on May 1st.

Compared to other industries, the required increases in the electrical and electronics industry are moderate. Many other industries have already signed collective contracts that provide at least 2.65 to 3.6 percent wage increase. For example, wages in the chemical industry increase by 2.65 percent from May 1, while even in the woodworking industry, an increase was decided by 2.75 percent from May 1st. In the banking industry, 68,000 employees recorded an increase of 3 percent from April 2025.

inflation situation and wage negotiations

The inflation situation behind the negotiations should not be underestimated. While the unions are demanding to orient the wage increase in the actual inflation rate, it is surprising that employers often refer to forecasts. This was criticized by the GPA because forecasts are unsure and more binding data about past price increases needed to negotiate an appropriate wage increase. The WIFO had already predicted that inflation could be 3.3 percent in 2022; In fact, however, it was almost 8.6 percent.

The National Bank OENB states that wages follow the prices and that no unjustified degrees were found. In fact, the average collective agreement increases a coordination with the actual inflation rate. Trade unions must insist that wage increases are based on secure data in order to do justice to the employee.

The next negotiation date for the collective contracts in the electrical and electronics industry has been agreed for May 9th, and hope for an agreement remains.