UAW Threatens Strike at Ford Motor Company Plant in Kentucky
The United Auto Workers (UAW) has issued a strike threat against Ford Motor Company’s plant in Kentucky if union demands are not resolved within the next seven days. The UAW, a Detroit-based union, confirmed that nearly 9,000 UAW autoworkers at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant are planning a strike. This plant is the company’s largest in terms of employment and revenue.
The core issues being addressed by local negotiators include health and safety concerns. The union is calling for minimum in-plant nurse staffing levels, ergonomic improvements, and protection against Ford’s attempts to undermine skilled trades at the Kentucky Truck Plant. The factory produces Ford Super Duty pickups, as well as Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigator SUVs.
This strike threat highlights the contentious relationship between Ford and the UAW. Ford CEO Jim Farley expressed his frustration with the UAW strike that occurred last year, stating that it had a significant impact on the company. As a result, Ford will have to carefully consider its manufacturing footprint going forward.
Previously, when the UAW strike ended, Ford laid off around 1,600 employees at its Louisville Assembly Plant due to parts-related issues. The layoffs continued throughout November, impacting production shifts and the entire production line. The Louisville Assembly Plant is responsible for producing the Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair.
UAW Vice President Chuck Browning has requested authorization from UAW President Shawn Fain to set a strike deadline at the Kentucky Truck Plant for February 23. If the strike goes ahead, it could have significant implications for Ford’s operations and production.
Ford’s shares closed down 1.76% at $12.30 following news of the strike threat.
It remains to be seen how negotiations between Ford and the UAW will progress in the coming days. The outcome of these talks will not only impact the workers involved but also have broader implications for Ford’s business operations and future plans.
