Florists are demanding a five-day week and more vacation!

Florists are demanding a five-day week and more vacation!

The floristry industry is facing changes: On May 28, 2025, the union is calling for more rights and better working conditions for florists. A large number of jobs in flower shops are held by women who are responsible for making bouquets, wreaths, and making arrangements and bridal jewelry. They also decorate shop windows, sales rooms and hotel foyers. Tino Brüning, district chairman, describes the profession as a “hard job” that is often associated with high demands on the workforce.

Many florists currently work six days a week and only enjoy 24 days of vacation per year. Brüning rates the job as a “power-out job” and emphasizes that in many cases overtime is not adequately compensated. The union is planning negotiations with the German Florists Association (FDF) to negotiate a collective agreement that will improve working conditions. Florists also play a crucial role in significant events such as baptisms, weddings and funerals.

Working conditions and collective agreement

In addition to the union's demands, the general conditions for florists and flower retailers in Austria are regulated by a collective agreement. This has been valid since February 1, 2018 and covers working hours, pay and other important aspects of the employment relationship. The weekly working time is 40 hours, with special regulations when starting work, breaks and provisions for young people and apprentices. Overtime is paid with a 50% surcharge, as is night work between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. There is even a 100% surcharge for work on Sundays and public holidays.

The collective agreement also describes in detail the continued payment of wages in the event of absence from work, maternity protection and regulations on vacation and vacation allowances. This includes the calculation and payment of holiday pay and Christmas bonuses, which depend on years of service. Compliance with the collective agreement is mandatory for all companies that are part of the Federal Guild of Gardeners and Florists.

Future prospects for florists

The planned negotiations could bring decisive progress for the working conditions of florists. In addition to improving vacation and working hours, the goal is also to increase appreciation for this often challenging profession. The union and the florists themselves are committed to a future-proof perspective in the industry in order to meet both individual needs and the requirements of the market.

Florists not only play a central role in shaping life events, but also contribute to the cultural diversity and aesthetics in our society. Therefore, it is time to rethink and improve their working conditions.