Daimler Truck is facing a critical deadline to negotiate a new labor contract with over 7,300 hourly workers across six facilities in the U.S. South.
If an agreement is not reached by the end of Friday, United Auto Workers (UAW) union members could go on strike.
Worker Demands:
The workers seek higher pay, cost-of-living adjustments, and greater job security from the heavy truck maker. UAW President Shawn Fain emphasized the need for fair compensation, stating that workers’ wages at Daimler have not kept pace.
He reiterated the union’s commitment to raising standards and fighting for what workers deserve without conceding ground.
Strike Deadline:
Fain is expected to announce whether a strike will occur during a press conference before the midnight ET strike deadline.
Under Fain’s leadership, the UAW has been assertive in negotiating significant raises and concessions for its members, as demonstrated in previous agreements with the Detroit Three automakers.
Union Action:
The union has already taken steps to prepare for a potential strike. In March, a majority of workers at Daimler Truck’s facilities voted to authorize a strike.
Additionally, the U.S. National Labor Relations Board has charged the company with unfair labor practices, alleging violations of workers’ rights and federal labor laws.
Company Response:
Daimler Truck has not responded to requests for comment on the matter. The outcome of the negotiations will have significant implications for the company and its workforce, particularly amid the UAW’s efforts to organize non-union plants across the automotive industry.