Unifor Local 444 and NextStar Reach Tentative Agreement for EV Battery Plant Unionization.

Unifor Local 444 has reached a tentative agreement to unionize the NextStar EV battery facility in Windsor, Ontario. The agreement reflects the union's commitment to fairness, respect, and a strong future in the new sector. A ratification vote is scheduled for Sunday. The facility, which employs 2,500 people and is expected to create thousands of spin-off jobs, is a joint venture between LG Energy Solutions and Stellantis.

Unifor Local 444 has reached a tentative agreement to unionize the NextStar EV battery facility in Windsor, Ontario. The agreement, which reflects the union's commitment to fairness, respect, and a strong future in the emerging electrified sector, has been met with enthusiasm by the employees. A ratification vote is scheduled for Sunday.

NextStar, a joint venture between LG Energy Solutions and Stellantis, began production last fall and is expected to employ 2,500 people at full capacity. The facility's construction started in 2022 and is anticipated to generate thousands of spin-off jobs in Windsor's auto sector [1].

The tentative agreement is a significant milestone for the union, setting the bar for strong representation and protections for workers in the new sector. James Stewart, president of Unifor Local 444, praised the union's bargaining team and employees for their patience, participation, and solidarity throughout the process.

Meanwhile, General Motors (GM) and LG Energy Solution are strengthening the US EV battery supply chain by upgrading the Ultium Cells plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee to produce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells. This move aligns with global trends and addresses domestic manufacturing needs [2]. The plant, which currently employs approximately 1,300 people, is expected to sustain and potentially grow its workforce with the planned upgrade.

The decision to scale LFP battery cell production in the US is crucial for reducing reliance on foreign imports, particularly from China, which currently dominates the global LFP market. This initiative not only supports GM's vision for a sustainable future but also positions the US as a competitive force in the global EV market.

References:
[1] https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/windsor-444-nextstar-unionize-1.7585845
[2] https://www.batterytechonline.com/ev-batteries/gm-lg-energy-solution-strengthen-us-ev-supply-chain-with-lfp-batteries