Mercedes Benz Factory Workers to Vote on Unionization

Workers at the Mercedes Benz factory in Vance, Alabama, are scheduled to vote between May 13 and May 17 on whether to join the United Auto Workers (UAW) union. 

This vote holds significant importance as it could mark a major victory for the UAW in organizing factory employees of foreign-owned automakers in the U.S.

Significance for UAW:

If successful, organizing workers at Mercedes’ Tuscaloosa plant would represent a significant win for the UAW, especially as it endeavors to expand its membership among foreign automakers’ employees. 

The outcome of this vote follows extensive organizing efforts at non-union automakers such as Hyundai Motor and Toyota Motor.

Context and Recent Developments:

Earlier this month, workers at the Mercedes plant initiated the process by filing an election petition with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to hold the unionization vote.

The UAW’s successful negotiations with the Detroit Three Automakers have bolstered calls for organizing non-union automakers. 

This week, workers at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant in Tennessee are also voting on joining the union, with previous attempts narrowly missing a majority in 2014 and 2019.

Expected Participation and Timeline:

According to the UAW, approximately 5,200 eligible workers at the Mercedes plant and a nearby Woodstock, Alabama facility have expressed their desire to join the union by signing cards. 

The NLRB will conduct the ballot count starting around 10:45 am ET on May 17, with the results anticipated on the same day.