The deal, jointly negotiated by Filctem Cgil, Femca Cisl, and Uiltec Uil in Italy’s fourth-largest manufacturing sector, plastics and rubber, applies for the three years 2026-2028. There will be an overall pay rise of €204 per month, while the collectively agreed minimum wage will be raised by €195 in four instalments.

Additionally, retired workers will gain from the agreement as companies’ contributions to supplementary pensions will increase, along with social security paid by companies. Moreover, support for a health fund will continue. 

In terms of equal opportunities and inclusiveness, the agreement introduces new measures for female workers who are victims of violence and are enrolled in certified protection programs. It also paves the way for a review of the transposition of EU Directive 2023/970 on pay transparency. The agreement strengthens the protection of workers with serious illnesses and certified disabilities and devotes significant attention to active aging.

To better prepare industries for the future, the agreement reinforces a national observatory for industrial relations to study the impact of artificial intelligence on employment, health and safety, transitions, wage dynamics, training, and diversity. The agreement allocates a further twelve hours of training per year to be paid by the companies and facilitates access to smart working (flexibility and work-life balance) as well as reintegration programs.

IndustriAll Europe’s Deputy General Secretary, Isabelle Barthès, congratulates the Italian unions on the agreement and its positive impact on workers in the plastics and rubber sector.

"This decade has been very tough for working families in Europe, marked by soaring living costs and austerity measures. Therefore, it is great to see that the unity and resilience demonstrated by the trade unions have ultimately paid off and led to a great result for our members."