Update on negotiations for the CLA catering-hospitality and inflight

Negotiation Round 1 - 16 January 2024:

> Contract Catering & Hospitality

On 16 January 2024, negotiations began for a new CLA for Contract Catering (Part A) and Hospitality (Part B) & Inflight section (Part A). During this first negotiation round, the proposals from FNV Catering, CNV Vakmensen and union de Unie were explained. The employers also explained their proposals.

The main topic of discussion during this first negotiation round was salary. What are the consequences of the increase in the statutory minimum hourly salary from 1 January 2024 for the salary scales in catering and how should this be handled to restore and improve the balance in the salary structure? And what do we do with Part B (Hospitality) and the new agreements made in the CLA hospitality? FNV Catering conducted a survey beforehand. The results were explained, particularly the desire to substantially increase wages in the sector due to the increased inflation during the term of the Updates CLA. Regarding future expectations, FNV Catering proposes to agree on a system of automatic price compensation (APC) to mitigate the effects of future inflation increases.

Employers indicate they are not keen on additional leave (arrangements) proposed by trade unions. There is already a tight labour market, and this additional leave only makes it more difficult. Employers also prefer to prioritise salary indexation over adding extra (financial) value to the plus Membership.

Trade unions have indicated that communication about a transition from part A to part B of the CLA can be improved. Employers agree, and it has been agreed to clearly map out the differences between part A (catering) and part B (hospitality) of the CLA and see how we can further improve communication during a possible transition. It is important that employees clearly understand what a transition means and what possibilities exist.

> Inflight

A separate negotiation table has been set up for negotiations on the inflight part of the CLA, where specific matters applicable to inflight employees are discussed.

After explaining the proposal letters (FNV Catering proposals and employers' proposals), we discussed the issues concerning inflight. These include developments at Schiphol, labour market tightness, future plans, and salary developments at Schiphol companies and other sectors. We then reviewed all other employer proposals. Proposals that seem fine for now include the expansion of the generation pact and employee Your career. Additionally, there are proposals that need further elaboration, such as the reduction of shift work and adjustment of the roster system.

During this meeting, it was also indicated that substantially increasing wages and improving the travel allowance are the key components to reaching an agreement. The meeting proceeded in a good atmosphere, and next time (23 January) we will continue discussing wages.

Negotiation Round 2: 23 January 2024:

> Contract Catering & Hospitality

On Monday, 22 January, FNV Catering had an extensive discussion with the CLA committee about the employers' proposals. The aim for a salary increase for the new CLA was discussed and set at 14%.
During the 2^nd negotiation round, we discussed the employers' proposals and FNV Catering's response. We quickly arrived at several important questions.

• What is the future of part A (contract catering) and part B (Hospitality) in the sector CLA?
• What are the differences between part A and B, and how can we improve communication about them?
• What salary Your career is suitable for both employees and employers, also in relation to the recent increase in the statutory minimum salary?
• What is the significance of the recently concluded hospitality CLA for part B in the CLA?
• What is the long-term perspective for the sector and the sector CLA?

These are good but also tough questions for which we do not yet have a joint answer. Particularly on salary and the future of part A & B, the differences are significant. 

The previously requested overview of the differences between part A and B of the CLA has been created. We have reviewed and supplemented this. The parties agree that communication about this can and should be improved. Each party will first consult with their members on how to prevent a potential impasse on the above important questions.

> Inflight

The parties have noted that the discussion about appropriate salary Your career within contract catering & Hospitality also applies to inflight and probably even more so. With that in mind, employers have proposed not to continue discussions without a clear view of a supported solution. It helps if a solution is in sight at the other negotiation table. Therefore, it has been decided to cancel the Inflight meeting of 23 January. Although we understand this, it is a disappointment for those hoping for quick clarity on wages. FNV Catering knows better than anyone that the labour market in inflight is a serious problem. 

When are the next negotiations?

• 3^rd negotiation round: Thursday 1 February 2024
• 4^th negotiation round: Tuesday 13 February 2024