The head of the United Auto Workers (UAW), Shawn Fain, has declared that the union is prepared to strike against General Motors, Ford Motor, and Stellantis if a fair contract is not reached. Representing approximately 150,000 U.S. hourly workers in the automotive industry, the UAW aims to secure better terms for its members.
During an online statement, Fain emphasized that the “Big Three” automakers are the union’s primary strike target. He pointed out that over the past decade, these companies have amassed a staggering quarter of a trillion dollars in profits from their North American operations. Fain believes that considering their substantial financial success, Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis have the means to address the demands of the workers and provide them with their fair share.
The negotiations between the UAW and the automakers are scheduled to begin on Thursday, ahead of the expiration of the current four-year labor deal in mid-September. Stellantis will be the first company to engage in talks, followed by Ford on Friday, and General Motors on July 18.
In response to the upcoming negotiations, Stellantis has stated that its main focus will be to secure a contract that ensures the company’s competitiveness in the rapidly changing global market while also safeguarding the wages and benefits of its represented workforce. The automaker recognizes the valuable contributions of its employees and aims to strike a balance between maintaining profitability and meeting the needs of its workers.
