Collective Bargaining Deal: Pay Increase for Hundreds of Thousands in Chemical Sector Despite Economic Challenges
Contrary to initial expectations given the challenging economic climate, employers and the IG BCE trade union have successfully reached a collective bargaining agreement for nearly 600,000 employees in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, securing future salary increases.
The agreement specifically addresses the strained situation faced by parts of the industry, which is grappling with high energy costs and intensified competition from international rivals. As a result, no immediate salary increases are scheduled for the current year. Instead, employees will see a 2.1 percent raise implemented from January 2027, followed by an additional 2.4 percent increase starting in January 2028.
Matthias Bürk, chief negotiator for the employers' association BAVC, commented on the outcome, stating, "This collective bargaining agreement provides companies with much-needed relief during these critical times."
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