February 2023

Finland face potential wave of strikes in February

A key union of Finnish industrial workers said it had rejected a settlement proposal in its wage dispute with employers, firming up plans that several unions will go on strike in February. 

The impact pf this has a real threat on the supply line into the UK with a strong risk of disruption to materials for the label industry. 

High inflation and an uncertain economic outlook have stalled the ongoing round of negotiations between employee unions and employer organisations in Finland where wages are determined in national collective agreements. 

The failed wage negotiations between employer representatives and trade unions in the technology and industry sector over the weekend will likely result in strikes in February that will spread to other key sectors in the country. 

Based on almost 10% inflation and using the recent German wage settlement as a benchmark, the Industrial Union demanded a 5% increase in salaries per year, which was even backed by the Technology Industry Employers of Finland. 

However, because the employer representatives of the industry sector instead proposed a 6.6% increase over a two-year period, this was shot down by the Industrial Union, and while negotiations while to resume on Tuesday, the unions have announced that a ‘no-deal’ situation will result in strikes to be held from Wednesday (1 February).’ 

The ramifications of this could lead to shortages in materials along with delays to shipping owing to the closure, disruption of ports. 

BPIF Labels are monitoring developments and will continue to provide updates on the situation. 

For details on the ongoing story visit 

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