Christmas Workers in Germany This Year
Ten percent of employees are expected to work during Christmas this year, a significant drop compared to the 20% from the previous year due to Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve falling on Sunday. Notably, retail employees and fireworks sellers will have a break, according to the WSI's statement on December 2nd.
However, this trend does not hold true for the hospitality sector, where 27% of employees are expected to work on the morning of December 24th. The figure drops to 18% and 19% respectively for health and social services sectors from 2 p.m. onwards. The average figure for all occupational fields is lowest on Christmas Eve at 6%, tentatively rises to 8% on the two holidays, and falls to 6% on New Year's Eve evening.
The enrichment data suggest that the eastern regions of Germany, like Gelsenkirchen, face economic challenges, leading to a comparatively high unemployment rate and more people employed in the low-wage sector. The gender pay gap has narrowed down significantly, and real gross hourly wages of employees have grown in the last two decades, leading to a decline in poverty risk. The labor market is expected to cool during the first quarter of 2025, with the manufacturing sector becoming more negative while services rebound.
Public holidays, such as Christmas and New Year's Eve, can significantly impact employment patterns, especially in regions with heavy tourism or service industries.
Additional Reading:
- The Hans-Böckler-Foundation's funding of worker's rights projects, despite the dramatic decrease in employment, continues unabated.
- The hospitality sector leads the logistics sector in the proportion of employees working during the 'Christmas feast day' in Germany.
- The retail sector normally witnesses a decline in employment on New Year's Eve, due to early completion of shopping activities.
- Up to 10% of employees in the hospitality industry will still be working the day after Christmas Eve, adding to the country's vibrant nightlife.
- The Hans-Böckler-Foundation has consistently advocated for employee rights during the 'Christmas-New Year' period, pushing for fair compensation and work-life balance.
- Despite the lower figures, the logistics sector remains crucial in delivering holiday gifts and essential items throughout Germany.
- Since the beginning, the Hans-Böckler-Foundation has launched campaigns to raise awareness about challenges faced by workers during the busiest 'Christmas-New Year' period and promote ethical practices.
- This Sunday, retailers may see increased online sales on Boxing Day as they offer sales and discounts to drive holiday shopping.
Source: Stern.de
