Retail workers’ pay and Saturday shifts still under intense negotiation
Talks over a new collective bargaining agreement for 150,000 retail workers have yet to reach a final deal. The ver.di union continues negotiations with employers, while key changes to working hours have already been agreed upon. Both sides are still discussing pay demands, including higher premiums for Sunday and night shifts.
One major shift involves the relaxation of the 'black-and-white rule' for Saturday work. Previously, employees could not work two Saturdays in a row without a following Saturday off. Now, companies can adjust schedules—either offering a five-day workweek with Saturdays free or planning multiple consecutive Saturdays of work. These changes require worker consent and approval from the works council.
The revised rules give retailers more flexibility in scheduling weekend shifts. Workers will now have a say in how Saturdays are structured, though pay negotiations remain unresolved. The outcome will shape working conditions for 150,000 employees in the sector.
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