The Detroit Three automakers—Ford, Stellantis, General Motors, and the United Auto Workers (UAW)—have engaged in some crucial negotiations this month, hoping to find common ground on several key issues. It has been a complex process, with both sides having their own sets of priorities and concerns.
A key point of discussion from the UAW has been their desire to get rid of pay tiers, secure cost-of-living increases, establish profit-sharing, and enhance job security, among other matters. Automakers are worried that compliance with these demands could mean not being able to invest in the switch to electric vehicles. These negotiations are important for both parties as they try to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Initially, there was a deadline set for September 14th, but Ford, Stellantis, and General Motors could not reach an agreement that satisfied the UAW’s demands. Due to its inability to come to an agreement, the UAW began initiating targeted strikes.
As negotiations pressed into week two, there was hope that a resolution would be reached by the new end-of-week deadline. However, as week two came to an end, the Detroit Three Automakers and the UAW once again failed to reach an agreement. This setback has led to more strikes at several General Motors (GM) and Stellantis locations across the nation. Ford was able to avoid additional strikes this week as talks move in a seemingly positive direction between Ford and the UAW.
The ongoing negotiations between the Detroit Three and the UAW continue to be a critical topic of interest, with both sides working to find common ground while addressing all concerns. AP News’ David Koenig reports on continued discussions between the UAW, GM, Ford, and Stellantis in the hopes of reaching an agreement before the strike further escalates.