Deutsche Bahn and the German locomotive drivers’ union (GDL) have reached an agreement on a total pay increase of five percent, to be implemented in two stages. The deal also includes structural changes to the pay system: a new pay grade will be introduced and targeted raises for operational staff have been added. Employees will receive a one‑time bonus of €700.
The new collective agreement will be in force for 24 months. After that, a three‑month negotiation period will follow, subject to a “peace clause” until 31 March 2028.
Martin Seiler, head of the DB staff council, described the outcome as “fair and sustainable”. He said the talks were “intensive but constructive and factual” which culminated in an agreement reached without strikes. According to Seiler, the deal delivers “noticeable improvements” for workers while giving the company planning security and stability.
A further element of the settlement concerns the Tarifeinheitsgesetz. A notarial counting method will be adopted to determine the majority, and some collective‑agreement provisions will now also apply to union members at firms where the other union holds the majority. The GDL’s tariff agreements will not be extended to the infrastructure sector.
