Negotiations between the service union Verdi and TÜV Süd AG, concerning pay for approximately 10,000 employees, reached a standstill on Friday, prompting Verdi to announce plans for an escalation of industrial action. The union confirmed on Monday that it intends to implement work stoppages beginning Tuesday.
This development follows Verdi’s prior calls for warning strikes at TÜV BUND as part of a parallel pay negotiation round. Verdi is currently seeking an eight percent increase in salaries, or a minimum of €300 per month, over a twelve-month period. The employer’s current proposal includes a six-month period with a one-off payment of €500, followed by a two percent salary increase on January 2026 and a further two percent increase on April 2027, all spanning a 36-month timeframe.
“The employer’s offer is completely unacceptable” stated Manuela Dietz, Verdi’s chief negotiator. She underscored that TÜV Süd has achieved a substantial 38 percent increase in revenue over the past five years, largely attributable to the efforts of its workforce. Dietz emphasized the union’s refusal to accept what it deemed a minimal offer in light of the company’s financial performance.
Initial actions are scheduled to take place on Tuesday in cities including Essen, Hannover and Nürnberg. Further details regarding the nature and scope of these actions are expected shortly.
