Workers at the Clarios automobile battery plant in Holland, Ohio, have gone on strike. The workers, who are part of the United Auto Workers union, overwhelmingly voted down the company’s proposed contract. According to 13abc WTVG, Clarios plans to change work schedules from eight- to 12-hour shifts with no overtime pay, as well as initiating cuts to member’s pay.
Clarios told 13abc WTVG, “We remain optimistic as we’ve reached agreements with all of our unions during recent contract negotiations.”
UAW Local 12 President Bruce Baumhower told WTOL11, “One of the problems is it's a concessionary contract. We're not in the mood for concessionary contracts. Today's economy is strong and our members have taken concessions when the economy wasn't. They want a fair contract and the company isn't willing. We're not going backwards in today's economy.”
This strike could negatively impact the automotive industry. According to WardsAuto, the Clarios plant is the only U.S. facility operated by a major supplier of the low-voltage batteries used by automakers and the aftermarket. The plant currently produces 150,000 batteries a week for companies like Ford and General Motors.