Amazon raises German warehouse wages, Verdi remains critical

Amazon announced a modest increase in the hourly pay of its logistics staff in Germany. Effective September, workers with at least two years of service will earn €18.87 per hour – a 3.1 % rise – while new hires will receive €16.66, roughly €4 above the national minimum wage. The company, which employs over 40,000 people at more than 100 German sites, says the adjustment is part of a broader effort to offer competitive remuneration and attract new employees.

Amazon does not have a collective bargaining agreement with any trade union. The German union Verdi criticised the move, calling for legally binding tariff contracts and an end to the use of subcontractors for parcel delivery, which it says often results in poor working conditions. Amazon defended its approach, describing itself as a fair and responsible employer and noting that wages have been raised each year since 2014.

The wage hike applies only to warehouse personnel; delivery drivers employed by subcontractors are excluded. Verdi continues to organise warning strikes, although their impact has been limited.