Verdi Prepares for Indefinite Strikes at Postbank

The Verdi trade union has declared wage negotiations at Postbank a failure and is now preparing for indefinite strikes. The union criticizes Deutsche Bank, Postbank's parent company, for failing to present a satisfactory counter-offer during the third round of talks for approximately 9,000 employees.

A ballot on indefinite strikes is scheduled from June 17 to July 3. If at least 75 percent of members vote in favor, Postbank customers could face further service disruptions, following several shorter warning strikes that have already occurred in recent weeks.

Verdi is demanding an eight percent wage increase, or at least 300 euros per month, for Postbank employees. Apprentices are expected to receive an additional 200 euros. The union argues that Postbank employees have not sufficiently benefited from Deutsche Bank's record profits. Additionally, Verdi seeks guarantees for job security and location stability, as well as a right to further training, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence.

The next round of negotiations is scheduled for June 30 in Berlin. Verdi states it is ready for an agreement, but only if Deutsche Bank presents a substantially improved offer reflecting the employees' contributions and the company's financial strength.