Factbox-From Detroit Three to healthcare, US labor unions flex muscle
By Mrinalika Roy
(Reuters) -A tight U.S. labor market, the expiry of union contracts and high living costs have led to tough negotiations for pay hikes and benefits, triggering strikes and protests across industries.
Nearly 444,900 workers have been involved in work stoppages and strikes through October this year, according to preliminary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, putting 2023 on track to becoming the busiest year for strikes since 2018.
Here are some sectors and companies that faced tough negotiations in 2023:
MEDIA
Members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) approved a new three-year contract with major studios on Oct. 9. Film and television writers had walked off the job in May over compensation, staffing and residual payments, among other issues. They returned to work on Sept. 27 after negotiators reached a tentative agreement.
Hollywood actors reached a tentative agreement with major studios on Nov. 8 to resolve the second of two strikes that rocked the entertainment industry as writers and performers demanded higher pay in the streaming TV era.
Valued at more than $1 billion, the three-year contract includes increases in minimum salaries and a new bonus paid by streaming services, the union said.
AUTOMOTIVE
General Motors (NYSE:GM), Ford (NYSE:F) and Chrysler-owner Stellantis (NYSE:STLA) ratified deals with United Auto Workers (UAW) members in November.
The UAW said on Nov. 15 that about 3,900 of its members working at Mack Trucks ratified a new five-year contract, ending a month-long strike at the Volvo (OTC:VLVLY) Group-owned company.
PARCEL DELIVERY
Teamsters union workers at United Parcel Service (NYSE:UPS) ratified a new five-year contract in August, a deal that raises pay, eliminates a
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