Why did the union choose to bargain first with Ford Motor Company?
Trade and investment uncertainty has defined Canada’s industrial economy since 2025. U.S. tariffs and trade aggression are threatening Canada’s auto industry, and have led to job losses, idled plants, and stalled new/next generation product investment. Any investments announced in Canada since U.S. tariffs were implemented were committed to by automakers before trade measures took effect.
Historically, Unifor has maintained a strong and productive relationship with Ford Motor Company. That’s one of the key reasons Unifor, and the former CAW, has so often chosen Ford to lead negotiations and establish the bargaining “pattern” for the Detroit Three automakers.
Ford Motor Company has also demonstrated a continued commitment to its Canadian operations, including the Windsor powertrain facilities and the complete refurbishment of the Oakville Assembly Plant.
Unifor and its Detroit Three Master Bargaining Committees believe a fair pattern agreement at Ford creates the best opportunity to secure deals with GM and Stellantis.
The decision to begin with Ford has received the full endorsement of Unifor’s General Motors and Stellantis Master Bargaining Committees.
