In the KV negotiations in the electrical and electronics industry (EEI) that started on Wednesday, the trade unions demanded 12.9 percent more wages and salaries for the 60,000 employees. The average inflation rate relevant to the negotiation from March 2022 to February 2023 was 9.5 percent, and economic growth was 5 percent in the previous year, according to Pro-Ge and GPA in a press release.
“We want to achieve a decent increase in real wages and increase incomes sustainably due to the ongoing wave of inflation. 12.9 percent more wages and salaries are a fair demand in view of the very good economic results,” said the chief negotiator for employees, Rainer Wimmer (PRO- GE) and Karl Dürtscher (GPA). “After all, the past two years have been characterized by strong growth in the industry – both in terms of sales and investments as well as the number of employees.” The order situation was excellent, productivity increased significantly and dividends were paid.
A permanent increase in wages and salaries as well as apprentice income would have priority this year. One-off payments might only be a “possible component”.
According to the broadcast, other demands in this round of collective agreements include the introduction of additional vacation days, depending on the length of the employment relationship. In concrete terms, there should be an additional day of vacation following five, ten, 15 and 20 years. In the area of shift work, the weekly working time is to be reduced to 36 hours per week. In addition, the trade unions are once more demanding easier access for employees to the leisure option, in which the actual increase can be permanently converted into additional leisure time. So far, the company can refuse this conversion without giving reasons, so there should be a legal right for the employees in the future.
The lowest starting salary in the EEI is currently EUR 2,037 gross per month. The next round of negotiations will take place on March 31st. The new collective agreement with higher wages and salaries should come into effect on May 1st.