Döner-Riese Birtat advocates for wage increase
In a significant development for the döner meat industry in Germany, the NGG union (Food, Beverages and Catering Union) and Meat World SE, the parent company of Birtat, one of Germany's largest döner meat producers, have reached a collective bargaining agreement. This agreement, covering about 120 workers at the Birtat factory in Murr, Baden-Württemberg, marks the first union-backed collective wage agreement in the sector.
The historic agreement sets the starting gross monthly salary for workers at 2,600 euros, with planned wage increases to be implemented by the end of 2026. The workers, many of whom are immigrants from Türkiye, Romania, and Bulgaria, had been organizing for transparent and fair pay due to previously wide disparities in wages for similar roles. Their work involves processing veal, chicken, and turkey meat at near-freezing temperatures to keep it fresh.
The union described the deal as a "historic achievement" marking a new chapter in labor relations in this industry. The employer praised the agreement as a signal of appreciation for the workers' hard efforts. The agreement also helped reduce market uncertainties and fears of price increases or shortages of the popular döner kebab product, which is widely consumed across Germany with millions served monthly.
Meat World SE (Birtat) was not immediately available for a direct statement regarding the agreement. However, the union has revealed that the agreement includes a two-stage increase in wages, up to 17 percent, with a term until the end of 2026.
This landmark agreement brings much-needed stability to the döner meat industry, ending a lengthy dispute that included several walkouts and strikes. It serves as a testament to the power of collective bargaining and the importance of fair wages for all workers, regardless of their nationality or industry.
[1] Union-backed collective wage agreement reached in German döner meat industry [2] Historic agreement sets starting salary for Birtat workers at 2,600 euros [3] Immigrant workers at Birtat factory to receive fair pay after lengthy dispute
- The German döner meat industry is experiencing a significant transformation with the implementation of a union-backed collective wage agreement in the sector, following a long-standing dispute.
- The historic agreement, effective in the Birtat factory in Murr, Baden-Württemberg, sets the starting gross monthly salary for workers at 2,600 euros, with planned wage increases scheduled by the end of 2026.
- Achieved after numerous walkouts and strikes, the agreement ensures that immigrant workers, including those from Türkiye, Romania, and Bulgaria, who process veal, chicken, and turkey meat at the Birtat factory, are now to receive fair and transparent wages.
