Banco Central Europeu monitors developments in the collective negotiations that brought 600 retail sector workers to the streets of Munique this Friday. The strike is part of a series of warning strikes called by the Ver.di union to press for wage increases. It is the biggest mobilization in the category in recent weeks.
Negotiations have been ongoing for months between worker representatives and employers’ associations. The movement occurs at a time of persistent inflation in the Zona Euro, which reduces the purchasing power of German families. Analistas point out that the outcome of this impasse could dictate the pace of other collective agreements in the country. The immediate impact was felt in large supermarket chains and department stores in the Baviera region.
Sindicato Ver.di demands 15% adjustment to compensate for inflation
The workers’ main demand involves a linear salary increase for all ranges in the sector. The union Ver.di requests a 15% increase in monthly salaries, effective immediately after signing the contract. Representatives claim that current salaries do not keep up with rising energy and food costs.
The employers’ counter-proposal was considered insufficient by the union leadership. The companies offered a staggered adjustment over two years, but the initial fixed percentage was below 5%. Essa difference between requests and offers created an environment of stagnation at the conversation tables. Trabalhadores from different German cities participated in the central act in Munique to show political strength.
The main demands presented during the protest include:
- Aumento real 15% on monthly salaries for all levels.
- Elevação of the hourly pay amount of at least 2.50 euros.
- Immediate Reajuste for apprentices and interns in the commercial sector.
- Garantia of the agreement for a maximum period of 12 months.
- Inclusão of protection clauses against layoffs due to automation.
Impacto of the strike affects large supermarket chains
The partial closure of stores and delays in restocking merchandise were recorded in the early hours of the day. Large Supermercados and stores specializing in electronics operated with reduced staff. The mobilization of 600 employees at a single demonstration point caused apprehension in the retail logistics sector.
Empresas like Edeka and Rewe, leaders in the local market, reported that public service continued, although with longer queues. The commerce sector is one of Alemanha’s largest employers, which makes any strike an event of national economic relevance. If the impasse persists, the union does not rule out calling new rounds of warning strikes in other states. Companies’ operating costs rise with each day of uncertainty, while inventories begin to fluctuate.
Setor employer warns of risks of passing on costs to consumers
Representatives of trade associations argue that union demands are unfeasible in the current scenario. Eles argue that a 15% increase would put too much pressure on profit margins, which are already thin in retail. The main concern is that the increase in labor costs will end up generating a new cycle of rising food prices.
Inflation at Alemanha has shown signs of slowing, but the services and commerce sector is still volatile. The union counters employers’ arguments by stating that domestic consumption will only resume if wages are strengthened. Para workers, retail reported record profits during and after the pandemic, which would justify redistribution now. Meetings between the parties are expected to resume early next week.
