Prices skyrocket in Baden-Württemperg due to Doner shortage crisis
In a significant development for the doner kebab industry in Baden-Württemberg, a prolonged dispute at Birtat, a major doner meat producer, has come to an end. The strike, which had been ongoing for weeks, threatened production and potentially led to concerns about supply shortages and price hikes.
The factory in Murr, southwestern Germany, is a significant supplier of marinated meat used in doner kebabs, producing approximately 13 million kebabs monthly. With over 600 doner shops in Baden-Württemberg alone, the potential for shortages was a cause for concern.
The workers at Birtat had been striking for better wages and transparent payment practices. These interruptions in production had the potential to disrupt the supply chain, leading many to anticipate higher prices and potential shortages.
However, on August 9, 2025, a historic collective wage agreement was reached. The agreement sets a starting salary of 2,600 euros, with planned increases by the end of 2026. This marks the first union-backed wage deal in the kebab meat industry, covering around 120 workers.
The resolution of the strike has ended the immediate threat of strike-related disruptions and should stabilize the supply chain. The doner, a popular and versatile dish, is enjoyed by people of all ages and has become a culinary icon over the last few decades.
The doner is made from thinly sliced meat, traditionally from lamb, beef, or chicken, grilled on a vertical spit. Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and a sauce complete the dish, served in a warm flatbread or pita.
Birtat, located in Murr, Baden-Württemberg, is the largest producer of frozen doner spits in the region. With around 200 production facilities in the country that produce about 400 tons of doner meat daily, Birtat's resolution should help prevent a doner crisis in the form of supply shortages.
While transient concerns about price increases and shortages existed during the strike, the resolution means the crisis is currently settled with a positive outlook for supply and pricing stability in Baden-Württemberg. The doner, often consumed as a quick meal on the go or a cozy meal with friends, can continue to be enjoyed without worry of disruptions.
- The workplace-wellness of Birtat employees, including fair wages and transparent payment practices, is now being prioritized, following a historic collective wage agreement.
- The health-and-wellness of consumers in Baden-Württemberg, who enjoy doner kebabs as a popular food-and-drink choice and part of their lifestyle, is now secured with the resolution of the strike at Birtat.
- The positive impact of this settlement on the doner kebab industry extends beyond Baden-Württemberg, benefiting other science sectors related to food-and-drink production and workplace-wellness standards throughout Germany.
