German Cash Transport Workers Reach Wage Agreement, Averting Holiday ATM Shortages
After lengthy negotiations, a deal was struck to prevent potential cash supply disruptions during the critical Christmas shopping period.
- Negotiations between Verdi and cash transport employers concluded with a wage increase of up to 8.43% over two years for approximately 10,000 workers.
- The agreement prevents a feared strike that could have left ATMs unstocked and disrupted cash availability during the holiday season.
- Verdi had previously rejected an earlier proposal, with 66.9% of union members voting against it, prompting renewed talks.
- The final deal includes regional wage increases ranging from 6.5% in North Rhine-Westphalia to 8.43% in eastern Germany, starting in early 2025.
- Employers expressed concerns about the financial impact of the agreement, warning of potential operational challenges ahead.