UAW Strike Spreads, Thousands Walk Off at Ram Truck Plant
The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has expanded its strike to include a plant that produces Ram 1500 trucks, targeting one of Stellantis' most important and profitable vehicles. UAW President Shawn Fain criticized Stellantis for offering weaker contract proposals compared to Ford and General Motors, including cuts to medical coverage and 401(k) contributions. Stellantis claims to have presented an improved offer, but the union has not provided a counter-offer. The strike, which began on September 15, now involves around 40,000 UAW workers seeking higher pay, improved benefits, and an end to wage tiers. The phased "stand up strike" strategy has been used to play the automakers against each other, with workers going on strike with short notice. While the strike has impacted the automakers' bottom lines, it has been smaller than if more workers had walked out.