The collective employment agreement (CEA) for Switzerland’s mechanical and electrical engineering industries guarantees the employees of the signatory companies good and modern working conditions. In return, they commit to uphold absolute industrial peace. This means that operations may not be disrupted by any form of industrial action. Industrial peace is a key advantage for Switzerland as a location for industry. It can tip the balance in investment decisions in favour of choosing Switzerland as a base.

The CEA for the MEM industries thus contributes to the positive progress of these industries and to the welfare of the employees and employers who form their backbone. Pivotal to this is the principle of good faith. This obligates the contractual parties to recognize and show empathy for each other’s interests.

Swissmem currently has over 1,300 member companies, almost 40% of which are also members of the ASM and thus subject to the collective employment agreement (CEA). Swissmem membership is much broader than that of the ASM. Membership of the ASM and thus joining the CEA are and will remain voluntary for companies. Some companies have left the CEA in the past few years. Many Swissmem member companies do not wish to join the CEA, as the prescribed conditions on working hours are too restrictive in a global business environment that depends on flexibility. The ASM will continue its commitment to bringing the conditions on working hours in line with the needs of companies and their employees.

You can also order a printed version of the CEA.