The union representing more than 6,000 employees at Stellantis’s Windsor Assembly plant is poised to commence collective bargaining with the company on Tuesday. Stellantis is the final company among the Big 3 automakers to enter negotiations with Unifor. The formal discussions are scheduled to start at 11 a.m. ET, as confirmed by a social media video statement from Unifor Local 444 president, James Stewart.
While the current collective agreement is set to expire at midnight on September 20, negotiators are striving to reach a new agreement earlier, ahead of a planned two-week shutdown at the end of the month. Stewart emphasized the intent to work continuously through Labour Day without breaks, aiming for an internal deadline of September 11.
This negotiation phase arrives amidst a challenging period for Windsor’s automotive industry, which has been grappling with significant U.S. tariffs on vehicle and parts exports to the United States. President Donald Trump has even raised the possibility of increasing these tariffs to 50% effective January 1.
Recently, members of Unifor voted in favor of a new deal with General Motors, which includes wage hikes for production and skilled trades workers, a productivity bonus of $10,000, and the renewal of a cost-of-living allowance. Likewise, union members at Ford ratified a fresh agreement in July, featuring salary increases, the continuation of a cost-of-living allowance, and planned investments in Canadian manufacturing.
A key focus for the union in negotiations with Stellantis is to secure future production allocations for both the Windsor Assembly plant and the dormant Brampton facility. Unifor expressed concern over the potential sale of the Brampton plant, where around 2,200 workers are currently laid off, considering it a significant blow to the Canadian automotive sector.
Despite the trade pressures imposed by the U.S. administration, Stewart acknowledged the tough road ahead for negotiators. He stressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “We are in the fight for our lives.” Given the challenges posed by the current trade dynamics, the union remains resolute in their commitment to securing a favorable outcome for their members.