Wages in the electrical industry rise: 2.75 % more for 60,000 workers!

Wages in the electrical industry rise: 2.75 % more for 60,000 workers!

Schwechat, Österreich - The electrical and electronics industry has concluded a new collective agreement after intensive negotiations, which provides for an increase in the actual wages and salaries by 2.75 % retrospectively as of May 1, 2025. This agreement concerns over 60,000 employees in the industry, such as OTS reported.

In addition, the KV wages and salaries increase by 3.00 %. A lid of 115 euros ensures an average increase of 2.15 %. Apprentices also benefit from an increase of 3.00 %. The increases in the allowances for the second and third layers are also 3.00 %.

flexibility through recession clause

The negotiating partners have agreed a recession clause that enables it to reduce the direct burden to 50 % of the current increase. The remaining 50 % can be compensated for either a one -time payment over a period of three years or as a leisure time. In order to increase flexibility in the company, the leisure option was extended by another five years. These aspects are crucial for the adaptability of the companies in a challenging economic environment.

The collective agreement was concluded for one year. The increase in mileage money to 0.50 euros, from 15,000 kilometers traveled, is another positive innovation for the employees.

conflict about wage and salary increases

The way to this agreement was not easy. Already on April 30, 2025, the third collective contract negotiations were interrupted without any result. The unions GPA and Pro-GE criticized the employer offer at that time, which only provided a wage and salary increase of 1 %. This number was perceived as disrespectful, especially in view of a relevant inflation rate of 2.76 percent.

Karl Dürtscher, chief negotiator of the GPA union, made it clear that no inflation was offered. In view of these circumstances, the works council: Inner conference on May 7 in Schwechat did not allow any conclusions to be drawn about an agreement, and trade union measures were not excluded. The unions had previously called for fair increases that take inflation into account. Further demands included higher shift allowances and easier accessibility of the sixth holiday week, as well as the protection of the leisure option.

The new agreement brings hopes to improve the income situation for many employees after more turbulent negotiations are behind them. A reinforcement of employee rights and requirements seems to be necessary in order to find your way around in a constantly changing work environment.