Recent reports suggest that a major deal may have been struck that would close the book on one of the largest labour actions in North America right now.
The United Auto Workers (UAW) is an American labour union that represents workers in the United States and southern Ontario, Canada. On September 15, 2023, leadership for the UAW announced that the union would simultaneously strike against the Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F), General Motors, and Stellantis for the first time in the history of the UAW.
As far as demands, the UAW reached this point after disagreements over the terms of a new labour contract. The union laid out goals that included increased wages over four years that kept up with huge inflation gains we have seen since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the union asked for an end to the tiered employment system. The union has stated that the current system leads many employees with a tougher road to receive higher wages and improved benefits.
Beyond those core demands, UAW membership also wanted improved overtime and retirement benefits. Negotiations also saw the UAW request improved worker protections against future plant closures.
On the night of Wednesday, October 25, the UAW and Ford reached a tentative deal to end the ongoing strike. Reports indicate that workers were able to negotiate pay hikes of up to 33%. That should give the UAW leverage in their ongoing dispute with General Motors and Stellantis as the winter months fast approach.
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