After months of intensive negotiations, the social partners in the sector have reached a new sectoral agreement. The discussions, which began in November 2025, took place in an economically challenging context for many companies. According to Belmetal, the outcome highlights the importance of constructive social dialogue within the sector.
The agreement avoids several structural cost increases that have been introduced in other sectors. For example, there is no sector-wide obligation to provide meal vouchers. The decision to offer them - or not - remains at the discretion of each company, allowing employers to align their compensation policies with their own economic reality.
At the same time, measures were agreed upon to support the functioning of companies. Once the legal framework is in place, the use of flexi-jobs will be possible without additional sectoral restrictions, providing companies with greater operational flexibility.
The agreement also includes targeted social measures, such as an increase in the bicycle allowance and a one-time maternity bonus. Limited adjustments are also made to seniority and career leave.
According to Belmetal, the agreement demonstrates that social dialogue can lead to balanced solutions even in challenging economic circumstances. Through prolonged negotiations, the social partners succeeded in finding a compromise that takes into account both the needs of employees and the competitiveness of companies.
The agreement also lays the foundation for the next round of negotiations in 2027, in which further modernization of certain sectoral provisions will be on the agenda.