Deutsche Bahn has presented its first offer in the ongoing collective‑agreement talks. The proposal includes a base wage increase of 3.8 percent, with an additional 2.2 percent earmarked for structural adjustments. In addition, a one‑time payment of €400 is offered, and the agreement is set to last 30 months.
Martin Seiler, head of the DB personnel board, described the offer as “good and very far‑reaching”. He said it reflects the core demands of the GDL and signals a willingness to negotiate further. Seiler argued that the 30‑month term would provide stability and planning certainty for the railway’s restart, and that any final agreement must also accommodate the continuing sanitisation programme at DB Cargo.
The German Railway Drivers’ Union (GDL), however, is not impressed. GDL national chairman Mario Reiß said on Tuesday that the company’s communication suggests an overall wage increase of about six percent, but that the details – especially the 30‑month duration – are decisive. He noted that the figure appears small when viewed in the context of inflation and would not adequately cover long‑term pension costs.
The offer now at least forms the basis for the next days of discussion. Seiler and the union say they will use the upcoming negotiations intensively to fine‑tune key points. Reiß stressed that only substantial revisions to the term, structure, and impact of the agreement could make a viable final settlement possible.
Finally, a peace obligation remains in force until the end of February, meaning that striking action is prohibited during this period.