If an agreement is reached with Ford, does that ‘set the pattern’ for negotiations with GM and Stellantis?
Yes. In past rounds, Unifor has negotiated an initial agreement with one of the Detroit Three automakers, and that deal sets the ‘pattern’ for the remaining negotiations. On occasion, automakers have entered talks attempting to reject the pattern agreement, which has led to labour disputes.
The pattern-setting company is selected by the Unifor National President
Once the first agreement is voted on and ratified by Unifor members, the union will select the second company with which to negotiate. Once that second deal is ratified by members, the union will negotiate with the third – and final – company. On occasion, the union has opted to negotiate with automakers simultaneously.
