The Bavarian Association of Freight Forwarders (LBS) regards the determined increase of the statutory minimum wage as a serious burden for the forwarding and logistics industry. Although the association acknowledges in its statement that the decision was not politically motivated but rather made within the framework of the Minimum Wage Commission, LBS Managing Director Sabine Lehmann warns of rising costs and increasing risks for employment and price stability in light of the economic situation.
"It is somewhat easier for us to accept the decision of the Minimum Wage Commission because it acted as an independent entity," says Lehmann.
That the social partners have agreed upon a comprehensive assessment considering all relevant criteria is an important signal for collective bargaining autonomy. However, the LBS is critical regarding the content. The increase of the minimum wage from the current 12.82 euros to 13.90 euros in 2026 and further to 14.60 euros in 2027 represents a total rise of 13.9 percent –
amidst a weak economy.
"Many economic sectors experienced very high collective agreements last year or in the first half of 2025," notes Lehmann.
The transport and logistics industry is also heavily challenged by the recent agreement. Due to the current development, the minimum wage is again approaching the collective wages.
"The image of a low-wage industry remains or even intensifies," she comments.
At the same time, expectations for further wage increases are rising, without these being covered by higher value creation.
From the LBS's perspective, it will be crucial to openly communicate the economic consequences.
"These additional wage costs do not disappear into thin air," says Lehmann. "Industry, commerce, services, but above all consumers, will have to bear the resulting price increases, especially for consumer goods."
Transport is not a cost-free given, but a necessary component of every value chain – whether in stationary retail or online business.
With regard to the labor market, the association also sees negative
effects. Lehmann expects a further push for automation and rationalization, especially in areas without vocational training.
"This has already been observed with previous minimum wage increases."
Minimum Wage Commission Decides on Two-Stage Increase
The Minimum Wage Commission unanimously decided on June 27, 2025, to raise the statutory minimum wage to 13.90 euros on January 1, 2026, and to 14.60 euros on January 1, 2027. The decision was based on the regulations of the Minimum Wage Act, which require the commission to consider the development of collective wages and employment effects.
Federal Labor Minister Bärbel Bas announced that the adjustment would be implemented by legal ordinance. She described the decision as the "largest labor-partner-agreed wage increase since the introduction of the minimum wage" and praised the commission's agreement as proof of functioning social partnership. According to the Federal Ministry of Labor, around six million employees will benefit from the planned increase.
For road freight transport companies, the increase means significant
additional costs. With a regular 40-hour week, monthly labor costs will rise by about 240 euros per full-time employee in 2026, and by a further 116 euros in 2027. Given falling freight rates, growing investments in digitalization, and ongoing labor shortages, the pressure for operational adaptation increases significantly. Companies must not only revise their calculations but also reassess their personnel strategies and route planning.
In addition, strict documentation requirements continue to apply. Anyone violating the Minimum Wage Act risks fines and exclusion from public contracts. Digital timekeeping systems, audit-proof archiving, and transparent payrolls thus gain in importance.
Conclusion for the Industry
The increase in the minimum wage is therefore a signal with a double-edged effect: on the one hand, it strengthens the lower income range – on the other hand, it intensifies economic pressure for transport and logistics companies. The LBS sums it up: The additional costs are passed on – becoming a challenge along the entire supply chain.
