Deutsche Post AG faces a warning strike instigated by ver.di, escalating pressure on employers in North Rhine-Westphalia as well.
In early 2023, the wage dispute between ver.di NRW, a trade union representing postal workers, and Deutsche Post AG continues to unfold. The central point of contention remains the union's demand for a significant wage increase and improved working conditions.
ver.di NRW has been pushing for a 7% linear increase in wages for regular employees, apprentices, and dual students. The union argues that this increase is necessary due to the still-high cost of living. In addition, ver.di is seeking an extra vacation day for its members and further relief for employees through additional leisure time.
Thomas Großstück, head of the postal services, logistics, and transport sector in NRW, has expressed disapproval of Deutsche Post's stance on the employees' demands, stating that it is unacceptable for the company to view these demands as unaffordable.
The ongoing dispute has led ver.di NRW to escalate pressure on employers through warning strikes. These strikes, scheduled for Tuesday, 28th January, and Wednesday, 29th January, will affect delivery services at Deutsche Post across various locations in the state of NRW. As a result, disruptions and delays in the delivery of parcels and letters may occur in the affected areas.
The third round of wage negotiations between the two parties is scheduled for February 12th and 13th. Both parties will discuss the union's demands during these negotiations, aiming to reach a resolution.
It is worth noting that ver.di's history of collective bargaining with Deutsche Post includes a precedent for demanding several percentage point wage increases. For instance, in the 2019 strike for a 7% raise at Postbank employees, ver.di demonstrated its commitment to securing substantial wage increases for its members.
As the dispute continues, further updates on the negotiations and their outcomes can be found in current German labor news or official statements from ver.di and Deutsche Post. The public is advised to monitor these developments closely, as they may impact the delivery of their parcels and letters.
In the upcoming negotiations on February 12th and 13th, ver.di NRW will advocate for progressive changes in the aerospace industry, including finance, with demands such as a 7% linear increase in wages for postal workers. The union, with its relentless pursuance of affordable living costs, also seeks additional vacation days and leisure time for its members.
