Mack Trucks Strike

United Auto Workers members at Volvo Group-owned Mack Trucks facilities in three states went on strike yesterday after rejecting a proposed five-year contract. The tentative deal was downvoted by 73% of 4,000 workers in Florida, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.

The deal would have included a 19% pay raise over five years, a $3,500 ratification bonus, and improved retirement and health benefits. UAW President Shawn Fain said the two sides remain apart on issues such as wage increases, cost-of-living allowances, and work schedules.

Mack Trucks workers are not part of the original UAW strike, which began Sept. 15 against the Big Three: General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler). Observers say the Mack deal may have fallen apart due to higher expectations from bargaining with the Big Three; Ford has so far offered a 23% pay raise, while GM and Stellantis are at 20%. More than 30,000 workers are now striking across 22 states (see map).