In simple terms most of Benelux & German GDP doesn't make its way into citizens pockets, as a result pay is relatively poor and has an impact on the standard of living. This is a result of official policy (Tarifeinheitsgesetz) meant to make labour more competitive.
If you look up GDP it is pretty big, but if you look up wages you will find its relatively bad.
If you look up GDP it is pretty big, but if you look up wages you will find its relatively bad.