Potential Wage Increases for Employees at Fast Food Chains

The union NGG has reported a significant breakthrough in wage negotiations within the system catering industry, which includes major fast food chains such as McDonald's and Burger King. While the agreement promises substantial pay raises, it remains contingent on final approval.

Employees of these fast food giants may soon see a notable increase in their earnings with the upcoming payroll. During a mediation session between the NGG union and the Federal Association of System Catering (BdS), both parties confirmed progress. However, the negotiated tariff agreement is still pending confirmation from the BdS, which has until Thursday at 6 PM to respond.

If approved, the agreement could lead to wage increases ranging from 9.8% to 18.73%. The NGG has expressed optimism about the development, considering it a positive move towards improving compensation in a sector often criticized for low pay, following several months of negotiations and multiple warning strikes.

In the three lowest wage categories, where employees currently earn EUR13.02 per hour, hourly rates would increase to between EUR14.30 and EUR15.00 by October 1, 2026, should the agreement be finalized. Additionally, skilled workers classified in the highest wage group are projected to earn over EUR3,000 per month for the first time. The initial phase of the wage increases is set to be retroactive to March 1, 2025.

According to the NGG, the new tariff agreement would impact approximately 120,000 workers across various establishments, including McDonald's, Burger King, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, Autogrill, and Nordsee. The BdS has not provided further details regarding the mediation outcomes.