Workers in the Netherlands whose pay is negotiated collectively saw their wages rise an average of 2.5% last year, the biggest increase in 10 years, national statistics agency CBS says.

However, the increase is marginally below inflation, which rose 2.6% in 2019 as a whole. It is the first time in five years that inflation has outstripped collective (CAO) wage rises, the CBS said.

The biggest rise – 3.1% – went to people working in the hospitality industry, where there are major staff shortages. The lowest – 1.6% – was recorded in the information and communication sectors.

The definitive figures will be published later this month.

Wage costs to employers rose 3.1% due to an increase in both unemployment and invalidity benefit premiums.