SNCF Offers 2.6% Salary Increase for 2026 Amid Mixed Union Reactions

The SNCF has proposed an average salary increase of approximately 2.6% for railway workers in 2026, a figure outlined following the annual mandatory negotiations (NAO). This proposed increase notably exceeds the projected inflation rate of 1.3% for 2026, marking a continuation of relatively competitive salary policies within the company despite leadership changes.

The management's offer includes staggered general increases of 0.25% in both July and October, an annual salary progression guarantee of 0.6%, and a value-sharing bonus totaling 650 euros, with 400 euros already distributed. Additionally, employees expect an average profit-sharing bonus of around 1,100 euros, varying by SNCF group company. Importantly, the lowest salaries at SNCF are committed to staying 10% above the minimum wage, roughly 2,000 euros gross monthly.

However, some unions express concern. While Unsa-Ferroviaire's Fabrice Charrière highlighted positive strides such as the guaranteed salary progression and minimum wage assurances, other unions like SUD-Rail emphasize that the effective general salary increase over the year is minimal—approximately 0.2% when averaged—due to the modest 0.25% raises per half-year. The agreement requires endorsement by at least two of the four main unions, with a deadline to respond set for January 27. Notably, a strike called by Sud-Rail and CGT-Cheminots aimed to bolster negotiating leverage but had little impact on train services.

Philippe Bru, SNCF's HR director, underscored that the offer’s acceptance hinges on union signatures, recalling last year’s successful agreement with Unsa-Ferroviaire and CFDT-Cheminots. Should the unions reject the proposal, SNCF has affirmed only a commitment to maintain salaries above the minimum wage threshold, leaving future salary increases uncertain. The negotiations reflect underlying tensions between management's moderate offer and unions' higher expectations for remuneration in 2026.