The first two rounds of negotiations for the new collective labor agreement for the Metal and Electrical Industry took place on September 30 and October 14, 2025. In this message, we'll bring you up to speed! There's good news: the early retirement scheme (RVU) has been extended. However, there's still a lot of work to be done: there's still considerable room for manoeuvre between employers and unions. We'll also inform you of a change in the negotiating team. De Unie.
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The first days of negotiations: proposals explained and still a long way to go
During the first day of negotiations on September 30, the employers' organization FME and the trade unions presented and explained their proposals. De Unie can you Here read back and find the employers' proposals Here.
Between rounds, the parties exchanged supplementary questions in writing, which we addressed in depth on the second day of negotiations, October 14th. This was very constructive, and the atmosphere at the table was good, but we have not yet been able to make many concrete steps. The gap between the positions of employers and employees remains wide, and we are concerned about the employer's proposals that would result in worsening employment conditions, including suggested cuts for long-term sick employees and steps back in the wage agreements for senior staff. No wage offer has yet been made.
Nevertheless, we are pleased that discussions have begun in earnest. The upcoming rounds of negotiations will now be crucial to determine where there is room for concrete agreements!
A first success: the RVU has been extended!
One important agreement has already been reached: the early retirement scheme (RVU) will be extended by one year. This extension provides clarity and peace of mind for older employees who wish to use it soon. We are therefore very pleased with this. It's also reassuring to know that if we agree on new improvements at the collective bargaining table, they will also apply from January 1, 2026.
New faces on the negotiating team: Jesse and Peter are taking over!
We would also like to inform you of a change in the delegation of De UnieAfter years of dedication to our members in the Metal and Electrical Industry, Gertjan Tommel is handing over the reins to his colleagues Jesse van Roeden (chief negotiator) and Peter Werger (second negotiator). Executive Wout Pronk will remain involved in collective bargaining negotiations and complete the team.
Do you have any questions or input for us? Let us know!
We'll continue our negotiations in the coming period! We'll let you know as soon as there are any new developments. In the meantime, if you have any questions or would like to share something you consider important in this collective bargaining agreement, please contact us. Jesse van Roeden of Peter Werger.
We have already listed the most frequently asked questions for you on our page Frequently Asked Questions.
