Frankfurt am Main – Against the emigration of skilled workers and for sustainable jobs: IG Metall is demanding more money for their employees from companies in the wood and plastic processing industry. The union is now starting the collective bargaining round with its demand: 8.5 percent higher wages and a further social component such as an inflation compensation bonus. The new collective agreement should have a term of 12 months.
There are currently 220,000 employees nationwide working at furniture, panel, prefabricated house and caravan manufacturers and automotive suppliers. Brigitte Döth, collective bargaining and industry coordinator for wood and plastics in IG Metall, said: “It is now about the future of the employees and the industry. Our demand does justice to the differentiated situations in the companies in many ways. The increased prices and the migration of skilled workers require better pay for employees.”
Employee survey: Industry has a problem with young talent
The wood-plastics industry has a problem with young talent: Due to the age structure alone, a quarter of its employees are expected to leave the workforce in the next ten years. According to a current IG Metall survey, 66 percent of employees are already complaining that their company is losing skilled workers. 60 percent of the 6,000 respondents feel that they are not treated fairly and appreciatively in their companies. Metal worker Döth: “Everyone can only really win with significantly more attractive working conditions.”
Following the resolutions in the IG Metall districts, confirmation of the collective bargaining demands by the IG Metall board is expected on October 22nd. Warning strikes are possible from January 12, 2024. Industry representative Döth: “Employers can now decide how hot the new year will start.”
Editorial note: Collective bargaining is conducted by the IG Metall districts. For regional information, please contact the press offices of the IG Metall districts.https://igmetall.de/presse-bezirke