Thousands of unionized workers at Mack Trucks went on strike on Monday after rejecting a proposed five-year contract. The deal, which covered approximately 4,000 employees in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Florida, was turned down by 73 percent of the vote, according to the United Auto Workers (UAW).
The proposed contract included a 20 percent wage increase, with a 10 percent bump in the first year, as well as frozen health insurance premiums for the duration of the contract. However, the workers expressed dissatisfaction with several provisions related to pay, work schedules, benefits, and health and safety.
UAW President Shawn Fain acknowledged the members’ decision and emphasized the union’s commitment to reaching an agreement. He stated, “The members have spoken, and as the highest authority in our union, they have the final word.” Fain also highlighted the remaining issues that needed to be addressed during negotiations.
Mack President Stephen Roy expressed surprise and disappointment at the workers’ rejection of the contract. He noted that union representatives had initially described the tentative agreement as “historic” when it was announced on October 2. Roy reiterated the company’s dedication to the collective bargaining process and expressed confidence in reaching an agreement that satisfied both the employees and the company’s long-term stability.
In a bargaining update, the company underscored the differences between Mack Trucks and passenger carmakers. They stated, “Given other negotiations in the news, it’s important to emphasize that Mack’s market, business, and competitors are very different from those of the passenger carmakers.”
The strike at Mack Trucks comes amid ongoing targeted strikes by the UAW against General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis (Chrysler parent company) since September 15. Recent developments in those negotiations, including wage increase agreements, may have raised expectations for the union workers at Mack. However, the progress made in talks with Ford and GM was not sufficient to end the strikes.
Mack Trucks, owned by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo, is primarily known for its semi trucks but also produces construction equipment, firetrucks, and military-grade construction vehicles.
As negotiations continue, both the union and the company will work towards finding common ground and resolving the issues that led to the rejection of the contract. The outcome of these negotiations will have a significant impact on the future of thousands of workers and the stability of Mack Trucks as a competitive company.