The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has its sights set on the next major triumph in the south, targeting two Mercedes-Benz plants located in Vance and Woodstock, Alabama.
Following their groundbreaking victory in the union election at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, a total of 5,200 workers are now set to participate in their own union election from May 13th to May 17th. The United Auto Workers’ (UAW) recent triumph in representing approximately 4,300 workers at Volkswagen marks one of the most significant union election victories in the manufacturing industry over the past 16 years.
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Kay Finklea, a quality inspector with 23 years of experience at the Mercedes-Benz plant, expressed her belief that it is simply time for a change.
According to Finklea, the pay, benefits, and work hours have remained stagnant or even worsened since she began, resulting in a decline in the work-life balance.
Finklea added that although they are expected to work 10 hours a day, they end up working 12 hours a day. This leaves them feeling exhausted and drained by the time they get home. They have little time to do anything else besides grabbing a quick meal, taking a shower, and preparing for the next day.
“I believe it’s essential for us to give ourselves an opportunity. Let’s invest in ourselves, unite, and strive to improve the lives of everyone.”
The UAW is actively targeting the elimination of the “Alabama discount” through its union-organizing efforts. This discount is a component of the economic development model in the US south, where wages are intentionally kept lower than the national average.
The union has emphasized the disparity between the stagnant wages of workers and the substantial profits of automakers, as well as the exorbitant salaries of executives.
According to the UAW, Mercedes-Benz has generated a staggering $156 billion in profits over the past decade. Moreover, the company has experienced a remarkable 200% growth in profits within the last three years. However, the UAW highlights that the top wages at Mercedes, which are contingent upon seniority and department, currently trail behind the hourly wage increases secured by the UAW at the major three domestic automakers towards the end of 2023.
According to the UAW, it would take a production worker at top pay two years to earn the same amount that a Mercedes-Benz executive makes in just one week. This stark contrast in wages highlights the significant disparity between the two groups. In 2023, the management board members at Mercedes-Benz granted themselves a hefty 78% pay increase, further exacerbating the wage discrepancy.
The UAW’s second major challenge in the southern US comes in the form of the Mercedes-Benz union election. Following their significant victories in contract negotiations with General Motors, Stellantis, and Ford last November, the union has now embarked on an organizing campaign to unionize 150,000 autoworkers at non-union plants across the US.
After a high-profile “stand-up strike,” significant support for unionizing among other autoworkers was ignited, resulting in those gains.
Rick Webster, who began his employment at the plant as a contractor in 2016 but officially joined Mercedes in October 2022, emphasized the need for Alabama workers to come together and take a stand. According to him, it is crucial for employees not just at Mercedes but also at Hyundai, Honda, and Toyota to unite and have a voice. Webster strongly believes that the time has come to put an end to the so-called “Alabama discount.”
The UAW has taken action against Mercedes-Benz by filing numerous unfair labor practice charges. These charges include filing complaints in Germany, where the company is based, due to the company’s resistance towards the union campaign.
Webster expressed how overwhelming the constant influx of text messages, emails, and work-related app notifications has become on a daily basis. He also mentioned the requirement to watch anti-union videos in the team room before every shift. The relentless bombardment of information and videos has left everyone feeling exhausted and frustrated.
Mercedes-Benz has denied allegations of violating labor laws, but they have openly opposed the unionization effort.
A spokesperson from Mercedes-Benz US International (MBUSI) emphasized their respect for their team members’ decision regarding unionization. They expressed their anticipation for participating in the election process, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to cast their own secret-ballot vote. The spokesperson also highlighted the importance of providing access to all the information necessary for team members to make an informed choice.
