Canteen pay row brings protests to five Spanish cities

Canteen pay talks are stalled, affecting thousands of workers in Spain: the unions CCOO and UGT are calling protests in Madrid, Spain, Málaga, Seville, Valencia and Valladolid on 3 November. They want the employers’ group Food Service España to resume talks on a nationwide agreement for staff who prepare and serve meals in institutions and workplaces.

Why talks broke down

The unions ended negotiations on 16 September after the employers rejected demands for higher wages and shorter working hours. The previous agreement expired on 31 December 2025. Improvements to working conditions remain on hold while the cost of living rises.

Who the dispute affects

The agreement covers thousands of people who prepare, distribute and serve meals in places including hospitals, care homes, schools and workplace canteens. CCOO says their pay barely exceeds the legal minimum wage. It also points to irregular hours, difficulty balancing work and family life, and growing workloads.

The union wants a minimum wage for the sector, better pay and hours that fit around family life. The planned protests are its next push to get negotiations moving again.

Topics: Jobs & labour

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com