The labor union representing more than 6,000 employees at the Windsor Assembly plant of Stellantis is gearing up to engage in collective bargaining with the company starting on Tuesday. Stellantis is the final member of the Big 3 automakers to enter negotiations with Unifor. The talks are scheduled to commence at 11 a.m. ET, as stated in a social media video by James Stewart, president of Unifor Local 444. While the current collective agreement expires at midnight on September 20, negotiators are aiming to reach a new agreement sooner, ahead of a two-week shutdown at the end of the month.
James Stewart mentioned, “We’re going to work continuously through Labour Day. Our goal is to push for an internal deadline of September 11.” These negotiations come amidst challenges for the automotive industry in Windsor, with the imposition of substantial U.S. tariffs on vehicles and parts exported to the United States. President Donald Trump has even threatened to escalate these tariffs to 50% effective January 1.
Recently, Unifor members endorsed a new agreement with General Motors, endorsing wage hikes for production and skilled trades workers, a productivity bonus of $10,000, and the continuation of a cost-of-living allowance. Similarly, Ford union members ratified a fresh deal with the company in July, which included wage increases, a renewed cost-of-living allowance, and planned investments in Canadian manufacturing.
A key focus for the union in negotiations with Stellantis is ensuring future production allocations for both the Windsor Assembly plant and the idle Brampton plant. Around 2,200 Brampton employees are currently on layoff, and there are concerns that Stellantis may consider selling the plant, a move described by Unifor national president Lana Payne as detrimental to the Canadian automotive industry.
James Stewart acknowledged the daunting task ahead for negotiators due to the trade pressures imposed by the Trump administration. He emphasized, “We are facing a critical situation. The U.S. administration has made it clear that they are not in favor of our auto industry. Despite the challenges, we are fully committed to the negotiations.”
