Spanish Postal Service and CCOO Union Sign New Collective Agreement

Significant Changes to Working Hours and Conditions

In a significant development for the workforce of Spain's postal service, Correos, the company has signed a new collective agreement with the Comisiones Obreras (CCOO) union. This agreement, finalized on December 31, 2024, introduces several key changes aimed at improving the working conditions and quality of life for Correos employees.

Reduced Working Hours

One of the most notable aspects of the new agreement is the reduction in the standard working week. Employees will now work a 35-hour week, down from the previous 37.5 hours. This reduction is part of a broader effort to align working hours with European standards and to enhance work-life balance for postal workers.

Improved Working Conditions

The agreement also addresses various other working conditions. It includes provisions for better shift scheduling, more flexible working hours, and enhanced rest periods. These changes are designed to reduce the physical and mental strain associated with the demanding nature of postal work.

Union and Employer Cooperation

The CCOO union, one of the largest and most influential trade unions in Spain, played a crucial role in negotiating the terms of the new collective agreement. The union's efforts were aimed at securing better working conditions, reduced working hours, and overall improvements in the quality of life for Correos employees.

Broader Context

This agreement comes at a time when labor rights and working conditions are under scrutiny across Spain. The Spanish government, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has been actively working to improve labor standards, including a planned increase in the minimum wage by around 4% in 2025 to keep pace with inflation and average wage growth[1].

Impact on Employees

For the approximately 50,000 employees of Correos, this new agreement represents a significant improvement in their working lives. The reduced working hours and improved conditions are expected to enhance job satisfaction and reduce burnout, aligning with the broader social and economic policies aimed at improving the well-being of Spanish workers.

This development underscores the ongoing efforts in Spain to balance economic growth with social welfare and labor rights, setting a positive precedent for other sectors and industries.