Eindhoven, 10 November 2026 – Members of the four trade unions – FNV, CNV, De Unie and VHP2 – have rejected the final offer from Philips by a substantial majority. This collective agreement expired on 1 July 2026. In doing so, employees are making a clear statement against the proposed collective agreement terms and the direction the employer wishes to take regarding pay and terms of employment.
A clear message from the shop floor
The voting results show that a large majority of members do not accept the employer’s final offer. Many employees are concerned about the continued shift from fixed pay to variable remuneration, the fact that structural pay rises are lagging behind inflation, and the consequences this has for pension accrual and future pay rises. Employees believe that working at Philips leads to a loss of purchasing power.
According to the trade unions, the results show that staff need greater security and fair recognition of their contribution to the company’s success.
Trade unions are holding consultations
Now that the final offer has been rejected, the four unions will consult jointly on the next steps. The unions will shortly invite their members to general meetings to discuss the situation and express their views on possible industrial action.
During these meetings, members will be informed about the current situation and the options for exerting further pressure on the employer to achieve a better collective agreement. The form and scale of any industrial action will be decided in consultation with the members.
Better results are needed
The trade unions emphasise that they remain open to consultation, but that any new proposal must bring about substantial improvements in areas such as structural pay rises, the maintenance of purchasing power and job security for staff.
“The members have sent a clear message. They expect a collective agreement that does justice to their efforts and that does not lead to a further erosion of permanent terms and conditions of employment. Employees are no longer willing to accept a situation where management looks after its own interests whilst they have to make concessions on their fixed pay. In the coming period, we will work with our members to determine what steps are needed to achieve that result.”
On behalf of the joint trade unions:
Patrick Meerts, FNV Metaal, 06 1122 4108
Rémy Biesmans, CNV, 06 2833 4284
Amilde Schuur VHP2 06-27084592
Suat Koetloe, De Unie, 06 525 22061
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