UAW targets Detroit Three automakers with first simultaneous strike
By Joseph White and David Shepardson
DETROIT (Reuters) — The United Auto Workers union launched simultaneous strikes at three factories owned by General Motors (NYSE:GM), Ford (NYSE:F) and Chrysler parent Stellantis (NYSE:STLA) on Friday, kicking off the most ambitious U.S. industrial labor action in decades.
The walkouts at the Detroit Three will halt production of the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler and Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck, along with other popular models.
«For the first time in our history we will strike all three of the Big Three,» UAW President Shawn Fain said, adding that the union will hold off more costly company-wide strikes for now, but all options are open if new contracts are not agreed.
Fain laid out plans for the walkouts on Facebook (NASDAQ:META) Live, less than two hours before the expiration of the old contract.
The action caps weeks of clashes between Fain and Detroit Three executives over union demands for a bigger share of profits generated by combustion trucks, and stronger job security as automakers shift to electric vehicles.
The executives have said the union's asks would make the automakers uncompetitive against other non-union rivals. GM CEO Mary Barra told CNBC on Friday that the automaker will keep negotiating, even though she was «frustrated and disappointed» with the strike, which would not be good for the industry.
The standoff has become a political issue, with President Joe Biden, who faces re-election next year, calling for a deal. Biden will address the strike later on Friday, the White House said.
The strikes involving a combined 12,700 workers will take place at assembly plants operated by Ford in Wayne, Michigan, GM in Wentzville, Missouri and Stellantis' Jeep brand in
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