Analysis
UAW/GM Will Take Lead in Auto Negotiations
Written by Sandy Williams
September 2, 2019
The United Auto Workers has chosen General Motors as the lead company for labor negotiations that will set the pattern for 2019 discussions. Contracts at the Detroit Big 3 will expire at midnight on Sept. 14.
“We are focused. We are prepared. And we are all ready to stand up for our members, our communities and our manufacturing future,” said Gary Jones, UAW President.
Union members overwhelming approved strike authorizations at GM, Ford and FCA. The vote is a routine requirement of the UAW constitution that gives negotiators the authorization to call for a strike if necessary.
The UAW members approved the strike vote by a 94.98 percent rate at Ford, 96.4 percent at GM and 96 percent at FCA.
“No one goes into collective bargaining taking a strike lightly. But it is a key tool in the toolbelt as our bargaining team sits across from the company,” said Jones. “Ultimately, the company holds that destiny in their hands as they bargain. Clearly, the UAW stood up for them in a very dark time. Now that they are profitable, it is time for them to stand up for all of us.”
Sandy Williams
Read more from Sandy WilliamsLatest in Analysis
Brazil pig iron market activity picks up
The pig iron market in Brazil saw some activity last week that could present some additional options to producers there, but at lower price levels.
SMU flat-rolled market survey results now available
SMU’s latest steel buyers market survey results are now available on our website to all premium members.
Key takeaways from CRU’s US Ferroalloys Connections Summit
CRU analysts break down their top takeaways from CRU's 31st Annual Ferroalloys Connections Summit, held Oct. 19-21 in Miami.
SMU Steel Demand Index improves but remains in contraction
SMU’s Steel Demand Index remains in contraction, according to late October indicators. Though growth faded at a slower pace, it rebounded from one of the lowest readings year-to-date from earlier in the month.
SMU Survey: Steel Buyers’ Sentiment Indices increase
SMU’s Steel Buyers’ Sentiment Indices both rose this week, with Current Sentiment rebounding 14 points.