Hesse hospitality workers face wage standoff as union rejects ‘disrespectful’ offer

A bitter pay clash erupts in Hesse’s hospitality sector. Employers’ offer leaves unskilled staff empty-handed—will the union’s bold counterproposal break the deadlock?

, and Administrator

2026 January 14 . 3:15 PM

1 min read

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NGG: Gastro Employers' Offer 'Disrespectful' - Hesse hospitality workers face wage standoff as union rejects ‘disrespectful’ offer

Wage talks in Hesse’s hospitality sector have hit a snag after the NGG union rejected an initial pay offer. Employers proposed a 1% rise over 30 months, with no increase for unskilled staff. The union has called the deal 'disrespectful' and far too low.

The dispute follows the expiry of the last collective agreement at the end of 2023. Employers, represented by Dehoga Hesse, put forward a 1% pay rise spread across two and a half years. Unskilled workers would receive nothing under the proposal.

The NGG union swiftly dismissed the offer. They are pushing for a 7.5% wage increase and an extra €300 yearly health allowance. Union officials argued that employers could afford more, pointing to recent tax relief for businesses in the sector. Dehoga Hesse has yet to respond to the union’s demands. No specific companies or entrepreneurs in the region have been named in connection with the negotiations.

Talks remain stalled as both sides hold firm on their positions. The union insists on higher wages and better benefits, while employers have not revised their initial proposal. The outcome will affect thousands of workers across Hesse’s hotels, restaurants, and bars.