In the wage negotiations for German seaports, port workers have predominantly rejected the employers’ offer, according to the service union Verdi, which reported the findings on Tuesday. Over 5,500 port workers participated in the survey, with 64.7 percent voting against the proposal.
The offer from the Central Association of German Seaport Operators (ZDS) included a 3.4 percent increase in hourly wages, retroactive to August 1, 2026, as well as a 200 euro increase in holiday allowance. Furthermore, employees working in high-volume container operations would receive an additional annual flat rate of 416 euros.
Verdi is now planning an internal membership survey to determine the next steps, which will run until October 1, 2026. If at least 75 percent endorse rejecting the offer and initiating indefinite strikes, the Federal Collective Bargaining Commission will advise on the failure of negotiations and the commencement of strikes. Sylvi Krisch, a lead negotiator for Verdi, stated, “If negotiations fail, we won’t automatically revert to the current status; rather, in doubt, we will start over and remain open to any outcome.”
