As of January 1st, you will receive 4.3 percent more gross wages. This actual wage increase corresponds to rolling inflation of 3.8 percent plus 0.5 percent, according to the PRO-GE union, and was already negotiated last year, as in the metal industry.
The KV wages and allowances in the metal industry will be increased by 3.8 percent. There is also an increase of 3.8 percent for the approximately 20,000 apprentices (now 967.42 euros in the first year of training) and the financing of the climate ticket for everyone in the first three years of training will continue. The new minimum wage in the metal industry is 2,516.58 euros gross.
Annual inflation plus 1 percent
In autumn 2023, colleagues in industry agreed on an increase consisting of annual inflation plus 1 percent, which means an increase in actual wages of 4.8 percent from November 1, 2024.
“The viable compromise that was negotiated last year succeeded in guaranteeing a real wage increase for the workers even in difficult times,” said the employee’s chief negotiator, Reinhold Binder (PRO-GE), on Thursday.
The scope of the collective agreement for the metal trade includes companies from eight federal guilds and a trade association of the Chamber of Commerce and includes professional groups such as electrical engineering, metal technology, mechatronics and automotive mechanics as well as the group of installers.
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**Interview with Reinhold Binder, Chief Negotiator for PRO-GE Union**
**Editor:** Good afternoon, Reinhold. Thank you for joining us today. It’s great to have you here to discuss the recent wage developments in the metal industry.
**Reinhold Binder:** Thank you for having me. I’m glad to be here to shed light on these important changes.
**Editor:** Let’s dive right in. As of January 1st, workers in the metal industry will see a 4.3 percent increase in gross wages. How significant is this raise in terms of coping with inflation?
**Reinhold Binder:** The 4.3 percent increase is crucial for our workers, especially considering the rolling inflation of 3.8 percent that we’ve experienced. By adding an additional 0.5 percent, we’ve ensured that our workers receive a real wage increase rather than just a nominal adjustment. It’s about making sure their earnings keep pace with the cost of living.
**Editor:** That sounds promising. Can you explain the specifics of the salary increases for apprentices in this sector?
**Reinhold Binder:** Absolutely. The increase also applies to our approximately 20,000 apprentices, who will see their wages rise by 3.8 percent. For those in their first year, this means their salary will now be around 967.42 euros. Additionally, we’re continuing to finance the climate ticket for apprentices during their first three years, which helps make sustainable transport more accessible.
**Editor:** The collective agreement seems quite extensive. What sectors are included under this agreement?
**Reinhold Binder:** The collective agreement covers companies across eight federal guilds and includes a variety of professional groups. This encompasses fields such as electrical engineering, metal technology, mechatronics, automotive mechanics, and installers, among others. It showcases the broad reach of the metal industry and the need for fair compensation across all sectors.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, there’s mention of a planned 4.8 percent wage increase in November 2024 based on annual inflation plus 1 percent. How do you see this affecting workers in the long run?
**Reinhold Binder:** This future increase is designed to further secure the purchasing power of our members. By tying wage increases to inflation and adding a percent, we are working proactively to safeguard workers’ livelihoods. It reflects our commitment to ensuring that workers can maintain a decent standard of living, even as economic conditions fluctuate.
**Editor:** It certainly seems like a thoughtful approach amidst challenging economic times. Any final thoughts on this negotiation process?
**Reinhold Binder:** I believe this negotiation was a viable compromise. It’s important to recognize that even in tough circumstances, we can achieve real wage increases for workers through dialogue and negotiation. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for everyone in the metal industry.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Reinhold. It’s clear that these changes will have a significant impact on workers in the metal industry. We appreciate your time today.
**Reinhold Binder:** Thank you for the opportunity to share this important information!
