Deutsche Bahn and the union of German locomotive drivers (GDL) have reached an agreement to raise salaries by a total of five percent, split into two phases.
The deal also introduces structural changes to the pay hierarchy, including a new wage grade and targeted increases for frontline staff. Employees will receive a one‑time bonus of €700. The new collective agreement will run for 24 months, followed by a three‑month negotiation period with a truce obligation that extends until 31 March 2028.
Martin Seiler, head of DB personnel, described the outcome as “fair and sustainable”. He said the talks were “intensive, yet constructive and factual” enabling the parties to settle matters without strikes. The agreement is expected to deliver “noticeable improvements” for workers while giving the company planning certainty and stability.
A further element of the settlement addresses compromises around the Tariff‑Unification Act. A notarised counting method will be used to determine majorities, and certain collective‑agreement provisions will also apply to union members in companies where the opposing union holds the majority. The scope of GDL’s agreements will not be extended to the infrastructure sector.