Stellantis has announced the layoff of nearly 200 workers at its Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, citing “intense external market conditions.” According to United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 1700, the layoffs, which affect 177 supplemental employees and 14 full-time employees, will take effect on September 28.
This development follows a series of workforce reductions by Stellantis, including plans to lay off more than 2,000 workers in Warren, Michigan. The layoffs come amid escalating tensions between Stellantis and the UAW, particularly concerning the delayed reopening of the Belvidere, Illinois plant. UAW President Shawn Fain has been vocal about the union’s dissatisfaction, warning of potential strike action.
In a letter following the layoffs, UAW Local 1700 expressed deep frustration, stating, “This is another slap in the face to our entire membership… It’s just a business decision for them. One robocall to fire 177 people for no wrongdoing of their own.”
Stellantis responded with a statement explaining that the layoffs of supplemental employees, effective October 1, are in line with the 2023 UAW collective bargaining agreement. The company also emphasized its focus on protecting itself from market pressures while striving to offer affordable vehicles to customers.
The UAW is expected to continue pushing back against these layoffs, with Fain suggesting that a strike vote could be imminent. “The working class all across this country is fed up with seeing corporations make out like bandits while our families fall further and further behind,” Fain stated during a recent Facebook Live event.
