UAW Expected to Expand Auto Strikes Friday

livemint.com:

The United Auto Workers union is poised to call more walkouts on Friday, as the strike against Detroit’s three automakers enters its third week. UAW President Shawn Fain is expected to disclose new site targets during a livestream to members at 10 a.m. ET.

General Motors, Ford Motor and Chrysler-parent Stellantis could be hit with more walkouts, which would start at noon, unless there is significant headway made at the bargaining table, a union official said earlier this week. Fresh work stoppages would add to the more than 18,000 factory workers across the companies who are striking at three assembly plants and dozens of parts-distribution facilities. The current total strike count represents about 12% of the union’s 146,000 workers at the Detroit companies.

Talks between the union and the three companies have continued this week. The union has been pressing for wage increases of up to 40% over four years, along with the return of cost-of-living adjustments and more paid time off. The companies have countered with around 20% wage increases along with other benefits, collectively calling the offers among the most competitive they have made in history.

Union officials have said the companies can afford their demands, citing a run of strong profits in recent years. The companies have said much of that income has been spent on developing electric vehicles. The union is striking all three companies at once for the first time in its 88-year history.