The UAW said nearly 1,000 workers at Dauch Corporation’s Three Rivers plant in Michigan ratified a new contract, ending a 10-day strike at the axle manufacturer and General Motors supplier. Members of Local 2093 voted 80% in favor of the deal.
READ MORE: Strike to End at GM Supplier; Workers Win Significant Increases
The agreement secures hourly wages of $30 by 2030, a more than 36% increase to the top wage rate over four years. Other gains include an immediate $8-per-hour boost for members hired before May 31, 2012, a $2,000 ratification bonus for some workers, additional paid time off and no increases in healthcare premiums over the next four years.
Members reached a tentative deal on June 10 and began returning to work the morning of June 15.
“From the time we walked off 10 days ago to this tentative agreement, the company more than doubled the money on the table,” UAW President Shawn Fain said. “Labor is our power and we can’t sell ourselves short in this economic crisis we’re facing.”
READ MORE: Strike Threatens GM Truck Production
Nearly 1,000 workers began striking at the Dauch plant, formerly American Axle, on June 1. The facility specializes in driveline products and systems, including front and rear axles. Customers include General Motors’ GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado pickup trucks assembled in Flint, Michigan. The facility also supplies a GM site in Wentzville, Missouri, that produces midsize trucks and commercial vans.
The UAW argued for higher wages during the strike, explaining that workers accepted a 50% pay cut during the Great Recession to help keep the facility open. According to the union, some hourly wages dropped to $14.50 and had recently topped out at $22 per hour.
