A potential strike involving 741 Norwegian furniture workers was narrowly avoided late Friday night as employers represented by Norsk Industri and the Styrke union reached a new collective bargaining agreement. Negotiations, mediated by Anne Cathrine Frøstrup, concluded just before a strike deadline. The agreement provides all covered employees with a general wage increase of 10.50 Norwegian kroner per hour, effective April 1st. Both parties have recommended the settlement. Crucially, the deal also includes measures designed to protect lower-paid workers from falling behind in future wage negotiations. The agreement prevents disruption to production at Norwegian furniture factories. (NTB)