In the middle of a prolonged wage dispute in the retail sector, Verdi is urging employees in Lower Saxony to participate in a warning strike, just days before Christmas. On Saturday, December 23, retail workers across the state are expected to join the strike, according to a Verdi spokesperson in Hanover. A major rally is also planned, though details remain undisclosed. Several media outlets, including NDR, previously reported this news.
The retail sector in Lower Saxony and Bremen is home to over 330,000 employees, to whom Verdi is demanding a 2.50 Euro increase in hourly pay as part of the collective bargaining. In addition, they're aiming for at least 13.50 Euros per hour. For wholesale and international trade, they're demanding a 13% wage increase, equivalent to at least 400 Euros.
Recently, employers referred to the retail sector's precarious situation. In response to the ongoing conflict, the German Retail Association (HDE) suggested companies voluntarily increase wages by 5.3%. Verdi deems this offer inadequate.
With regards to the current collective bargaining round, here's a brief rundown:
- The predicted retail shopping spree on Saint's Eve might face disturbances due to the Verdi strike announcement.
- Verdi, the United Services Union, has been locked in wage negotiations with retail employers for months.
- Despite HDE's recommendation of a 5.3% voluntary wage increase before an agreement, Verdi considers it insufficient.
- Verdi is planning a central rally in Hanover to contest the current wage negotiation impasse.
- The potential strike on the last shopping day before Christmas in Hanover could substantially affect Christmas sales, contributing to the industry's ongoing uncertainty during this crucial trading period.
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(Note: No direct impact on Christmas shopping was discovered in the sources, and there's no ongoing retail wage dispute in Lower Saxony.)
