The NGG union is calling for warning strikes at major fast food chains in Germany, including McDonald’s and Burger King. This action comes after the second round of wage negotiations in the system catering sector ended without agreement.
Union calls for strikes at McDonald’s, Burger King and others
The NGG union is calling for warning strikes “at McDonald’s, Burger King, Nordsee and Co.” The second round of wage negotiations in the system catering sector, which includes chains like Starbucks, Pizza Hut, and L’Osteria, ended without results. The next round of talks for the industry, which employs 120,000 people, is now scheduled for November – later than initially planned.
The NGG criticized employers for not moving “a single inch towards the employees’ demands” in the second round. As a result, things will now get loud, said lead negotiator Mark Baumeister. Actions and warning strikes are expected across Germany starting next week.
“Absolutely disrespectful” treatment of employees
Baumeister stated that after recent price increases, employees have a “massive need to catch up on wages.” He added, “They expect real relief and significantly more money – instead, the employers didn’t even bring a new offer to the second negotiation. This is absolutely disrespectful to the employees.” The NGG is demanding, among other things, a starting wage of 15 euros in the lowest tariff group, and 500 euros more per month for other groups.
The Federal Association of System Catering (BdS), however, spoke of an improved offer from the employers’ side, leading to a “fair tariff structure.” They cited declining guest numbers, economic uncertainties, and a deteriorating business climate as factors.
Markus Suchert, BdS Managing Director, stated, “The NGG must continue to move and contribute constructive proposals to reach a balanced collective agreement for both employees and companies in the industry.”
