Fuss about salary increases: entrepreneurs demand WKO boycott!

Fuss about salary increases: entrepreneurs demand WKO boycott!

The salary increase for employees of the Austrian Economic Chamber (WKO) is causing heated discussions in the local economy. At 4.2 percent, the increase exceeds the inflation rate of 3.5 percent and has been both criticized and praised. Entrepreneur Stephan Zöchling expressed himself vehemently against the decision and demands that entrepreneurs should temporarily suspend their contribution payments to the WKO. He describes the salary increase as a “fatal signal” and criticizes the fact that the WKO does not sufficiently recognize the current difficult economic situation. Zöchling hopes that at least 100 companies will follow his example to take a stand against the increase.

While the vida union praises the salary increase as an important signal in the fight against the loss of purchasing power, the Vienna Industrial Association (IV) sees the decision as insensitive. IV Vienna President Christian Pochtler described it as a “fatal signal” for upcoming wage negotiations. Politicians from the SPÖ, FPÖ, NEOS and the Greens also expressed sharp criticism. FPÖ social spokeswoman Dagmar Belakowitsch called the increase a “slap in the face for every local entrepreneur and employee”.

WKO defends its decision

The WKO itself argues that the salary increase is delayed and based on the collective agreements concluded in the previous year. These were between 5.4 percent and 9.2 percent and are therefore significantly higher than the increase for WKO employees. According to the Chamber, annual salary increases are actually lower compared to the private and public sectors. “The excitement is misplaced,” said WKO representatives, emphasizing that the salary increases were determined based on a formula that takes into account both inflation and the collective wage index.

In summary, it can be said that the discussion about the salary increase for WKO employees not only affects the internal structures of the chamber, but also has far-reaching effects on the entire economy. Criticism of the double standards of the WKO, which itself grants salary increases while expecting companies to withhold wages, has further fueled the debate. How the situation will develop further remains to be seen, also with regard to possible consequences for future wage negotiations across the industry.

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