Unifor, Canada’s largest private union, announced this week that the labor force has selected Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) as their target in its negotiations with the Detroit Three.
Talks began with the car manufacturers, including General Motors (NYSE:GM) and Stellantis (NYSE:STLA), on August 10th. But on August 29th, Unifor announced that it's going to focus on working out a deal with Ford first.
“Ford was selected as the target because we believe that the company is in the best position to reach an agreement that delivers on the needs of our members and sets a strong pattern for Canada’s auto industry,” said Unifor president, Lana Payne.
Moving forward, the union's main attention will be on discussions with Ford before the contract expires on September 18th at 23:59 ET (03:59 GMT). Unifor autoworkers voted overwhelmingly in favor of potential strike action if a deal isn't reached.
“These negotiations are about reaching an agreement that reflects the historic nature of the transition to electric vehicle manufacturing. That means setting the highest possible standards that protect the livelihoods and job security of all autoworkers now and in the future.”
Unifor also selected Ford for negotiations back in 2020. At that point, then-president Jerry Dias mentioned that Ford was chosen because the automaker was “prepared to reward” members, make assurances about ongoing manufacturing in Canada, and had “a vision” that the union believed aligned with the industry and the economy's best interests.
Unifor looks after 5,680 Ford employees across various locations, including the Oakville Assembly Plant, Annex Engine Plant, Essex Engine Plant, Bramalea and Paris Parts Distribution Centres, Casselman Parts Distribution Centre, Edmonton Parts Distribution Centre. Additionally, they also represent office and clerical workers in Windsor and Bramalea.
Shares of F are up 0.12% in mid-day trading Wednesday.