Newsflash: Furniture Bargaining Council – Extension to non-parties of the main collective amending agreement
The Minister of Employment and Labour, Ms. Nomakhosazana Meth, has officially extended the Main Collective Amending Agreement of the Furniture Bargaining Council to non-party employers and employees in the industry. This extension is enacted under Section 32(2) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995. The agreement comes into effect on 8 September 2025 and remains in force until 30 April 2028.
Key Highlights:
- Scope: The agreement applies to the Furniture, Bedding & Upholstery Manufacturing Industry in Gauteng, North-West, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and Free State.
- Coverage: Includes activities such as furniture manufacturing, bedding production, and upholstery services.
- Wage Adjustments (Free State Only):
| Occupation Skills Level | Occupation Skills Level Code | Minimum Hourly Pay Rate from 1 March 2025 per notice R.5830 of 4 Feburary 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| General worker | 05 | As per the national minimum wage rate increase |
| Semi-skilled employee | 04 | R28,79 per hour |
| Skilled employee | 03 | R31,02 per hour |
| Chargehand | 02 | R33,26 per hour |
| Foreman/Supervisor | 01 | R33,26 per hour |
- Wage Adjustments (Free State Only):
| Occupation Skills Level | Occupation Skills Level Code | Minimum Hourly Pay Rate from 1 May 2025 for parties and non-parties |
|---|---|---|
| General worker | 05 | As per the national minimum wage rate increase |
| Semi-skilled employee | 04 | R29,90 per hour |
| Skilled employee | 03 | R31,02 per hour |
| Chargehand | 02 | R33,26 per hour |
| Foreman/Supervisor | 01 | R33,26 per hour |
Impact on Stakeholders:
- Employers not previously party to the agreement must now comply with its terms, including wage rates and employment conditions.
- Employees gain access to standardised protections and remuneration.
- Training and learners under the Skills Development Act are also covered.
The extension ensures that all employers and employees, including those not originally party to the agreement, operate under the same wage structures, working conditions, and employment terms. This helps prevent unfair competition and exploitation. By extending the agreement, minimum wage protections and employment standards are guaranteed for workers who might otherwise be excluded, especially in regions like the Free State, where specific wage rates are prescribed. The extension, valid until 30 April 2028, provides long-term certainty for businesses and workers, aiding in planning, budgeting, and compliance.
View the official government communication below:
