The IG-Metall metalworkers' union and the employers' organization for the West German textile and clothing industry have been bargaining since October 17 for the renewal of the collective agreements for the sector's 120,000 employees. On Tuesday night (Nov. 6), the finally reached a compromise. Signed for 24 months, the new collective agreements provides for a wage increase divided in two as well as single bonuses. It also allows ailing businesses to cut, cancel or postpone the bonuses in return for employment guarantee. (Ref. 120652)
High wage increase for apprentices. “It is a strong compromise giving employees a good wage increase without jeopardizing businesses affected by today’s difficult economic situation” declared Helga Schwitzer, member of the IG-Metall’s board. Initially, the union called for a 5 percent increase over 12 months (see our dispatch No. 120611). In concrete terms, the new collective agreement provides for a wage increase divided in two: 3 percent in May 2013 and then 2 percent in June 2014. ...
Do you have information to share with us?