Union Workers at Mack Trucks Reject Contract Deal, Prepare for Strike

Union workers at Mack Trucks, a subsidiary of Volvo Group, have overwhelmingly rejected a proposed five-year contract deal, leading to an imminent strike. The United Auto Workers (UAW) announced that approximately 73% of the 4,000 workers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and Maryland voted against the agreement.

The proposed deal included a 19% pay increase, a $3,500 ratification bonus, improved retirement benefits, additional vacation time for some employees, and a reduction in the time required to reach top pay. However, the majority of workers felt that the offer did not meet their expectations.

UAW President Shawn Fain expressed support for the workers’ decision, stating, “I’m inspired to see UAW members at Mack holding out for a better deal and ready to stand up and walk off the job to win it.” Fain emphasized the union’s commitment to exploring all options for reaching an agreement and mentioned plans to resume bargaining with Mack.

Mack President Stephen Roy expressed surprise and disappointment at the UAW’s decision to strike, considering that a tentative agreement had been endorsed by both the International UAW and the UAW Mack Truck Council. Roy stated that the company remained committed to the collective bargaining process and expressed confidence in reaching an agreement.

This rejection comes as the UAW continues its targeted strike against facilities of the Detroit Three automakers since September 15. Approximately 25,000 UAW employees at General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis are currently on strike. However, Fain recently announced that the union would not expand the Detroit Three strikes, citing progress in talks, including Ford’s increased proposed wage hike to 23% through early 2028.

Mack Trucks, founded in 1900, is one of North America’s leading manufacturers of medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks, engines, and transmissions. Its trucks are sold in nearly 30 countries. Volvo acquired Mack in 2000.

Both the UAW and Mack Trucks remain committed to finding a resolution through negotiations. As the strike commences, the focus will be on reaching a mutually beneficial agreement that addresses the concerns of the workers while ensuring the company’s continued success.