Bavarian Parcel Workers Strike Threatens Christmas Deliveries

Failed wage negotiations prompt Verdi to call for strikes across multiple logistics firms, potentially delaying holiday packages.

The third round of wage negotiations between Verdi and logistics employers in Bavaria ended without agreement, prompting strikes until December 23.
Verdi is demanding a flat €368 monthly wage increase, citing inflation and wage gaps, while employers have offered a 3.5% raise in January 2025, 2.5% in 2026, and a €780 one-time payment.
Strikes are targeting major logistics companies like Hermes, UPS, Kühne and Nagel, and Schenker, though DHL is unaffected as it is not part of the negotiations.
Rotating strike actions could disrupt the delivery of over 435 million packages expected during the holiday season, though some firms claim to have contingency plans in place.
Employers argue that economic challenges limit their ability to meet Verdi's demands, while Verdi emphasizes the essential societal role of logistics workers.