Today, May 12, 2026, the Greek Ministry of Labour and Social Security announced the extension of Collective Labour Agreements (CLAs) to the food service and confectionery sectors. The decision—issued by Minister Nikē Kerameōs—takes immediate effect and benefits more than 400,000 workers across Greece.
Scope and Duration
The agreements apply to all employees in these sectors—including those working in tourism-related and food service establishments—and cover the three-year period from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2028 (for food service) and from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028 (for confectionery). They guarantee base salaries up to approximately 20% above the national statutory minimum wage.
Food Service Sector
The CLA for the food service sector sets a basic monthly salary ranging from €930 to €1,100—up to a 19.6% increase over the legal minimum wage. In addition to higher pay, it introduces several new employee benefits: a 10% marriage allowance, a tourism training allowance of up to 15%, and a 10% seasonal employment allowance.
Confectionery Sector
The CLA for the confectionery industry originally covered 6,000 workers. Under the extension mechanism outlined in the National Social Agreement, an additional 17,000 workers are now included—bringing the total to 23,000. Minimum daily wages rise by up to 7.2% compared to the statutory floor, with cumulative increases reaching 9.2% over the full three-year term. Additional provisions include a 10% marriage allowance, an education allowance of up to 10%, and a 20% premium for master craftsmen.
Minister’s Statement
Minister Nikē Kerameōs stated: “Extending collective agreements to two major employment sectors—with minimum wages raised by up to 20% over the statutory floor—is tangible proof of the importance and effectiveness of the National Social Agreement. It also confirms that the statutory minimum wage is merely a safety net: through negotiated collective agreements between workers and employers, wages and working conditions can—and do—improve significantly.”