Clarios shifting some production out of Toledo as strike enters fifth week

The UAW and Clarios met Monday after two failed agreements and two weeks without a meeting.

The strike began May 8 after workers at the Holland plant voted down a tentative contract agreement at the end of April. They voted down a second tentative agreement May 22. Workers say it did not resolve their concerns about changes to overtime pay and other issues with working conditions.

UAW leadership is not optimistic about Clarios’ willingness to compromise.

“It seems to me like they are more intent on breaking our members’ solidarity than reaching a fair agreement,” Green said.

Green and other UAW representatives said Clarios has sent letters to members encouraging them to return to work. “None of our members have crossed the line. They are staying strong,” Green said.

Said Sherman: “We held a meeting today with union representatives to listen to their feedback on the second tentative agreement that was endorsed by the committee, and the members rejected. We remain committed to creating a fair agreement while at the same time operating the plant and delivering quality products to our customers.”

The strike is one of two ongoing at auto parts suppliers in the Midwest. About 160 UAW members remain on strike at a Constellium plant in Van Buren Township, Mich. They began striking May 17 over safety and compensation concerns.

Clarios, of Milwaukee, ranks No. 75 on Automotive News‘ list of the top 100 global parts suppliers, with worldwide parts sales to automakers of $2.5 billion in its fiscal 2021.

Constellium, of Paris, ranks No. 84 on the list, with worldwide sales to automakers of $1.88 billion in 2021.

The AFL-CIO declined to comment.