Postal Workers Strike as Wage Negotiations Begin in Germany

Unions demand higher wages, better benefits, and improved working conditions for Deutsche Post employees during challenging economic times.

The unions Verdi and DPVKOM are advocating for wage increases of 7% and 8% respectively, with DPVKOM also pushing for a minimum monthly raise of €350 and additional vacation benefits.
A 24-hour strike in parts of Niedersachsen and Sachsen-Anhalt delayed the delivery of up to 30,000 packages and letters, highlighting worker dissatisfaction with current conditions.
Verdi emphasizes the need for better pay and extra vacation days to address soaring living costs and high stress levels, citing a record-high employee sick rate of 10%.
Despite reporting billions in annual profits, Deutsche Post argues that economic constraints and declining mail volumes necessitate balancing wage increases with financial sustainability.
The unions are calling for a short 12-month contract duration to allow for quicker renegotiations, reflecting concerns over inflation and the cost of living.