Another auto supplier has filed documents with the state of Michigan warning of a possible layoff of nearly three-quarters of its workforce as a result of the United Auto Workers’ strike against the Detroit Three automakers.
Eagle Industries Inc. said in a notice to the state released Thursday that it may temporarily lay off 171 of 230 manufacturing and administrative employees at a plant in Wixom “due to unforeseen business circumstances.” In the statement, the company said the estimated number of employees could change “due to changing business circumstances.”
The Detroit News left a message with a human resources manager at Eagle Industries on Monday.
According to its website, the company’s focus is on foam products for the automotive industry and others. Products such as “EagleZorb” are used in vehicle door parts, panels, and other areas to reduce vehicle noise and prevent injuries in the event of a collision. The company’s website does not mention the names of its customers, but the SPE Automotive Division, an organization that recognizes technical achievements in the field, has noted that Eagle components were used in Ford vehicles.
Other suppliers have issued warning letters as a result of the strike, and automakers themselves have laid off hundreds of workers at plants that make or use parts from plants where workers are on strike.
Meanwhile, negotiations between the UAW and the Detroit Three automakers continued Monday ahead of planned visits to Michigan by President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.
The visits were expected to put more spotlight on the strike against General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co. and Jeep maker Stellantis NV, now in its 11th day. The Detroit-based union expanded the action Friday to 38 GM and Stellantis parts distribution centers in 20 states after initially striking at a single assembly plant at each company, marking the union’s first simultaneous strike against all three.
Biden is expected to join a picket line in Michigan on Tuesday, following an invitation from UAW President Shawn Fain on Friday. Trump is scheduled to visit an auto supplier in Clinton Township on Wednesday.
“These visits will strengthen our credibility because we have a former president and a current president speaking on our behalf,” said Wayne Barracks, 53, of Trenton, a team leader at the Stellantis engine plant. “They are both on different sides. We need all the help we can get. If they’re both on our side, that’s a good thing.”
More: Where UAW, Detroit Three automakers stand on important issues
However, not all auto workers were thrilled with the presidential guests, whose support from workers was among the key demographics that propelled both to their respective victories in 2016 and 2020.
“I wish none of them would come,” said Jason Teaster, 42, of Rockwood, who works in the Ford stamping shop at the striking Bronco and Ranger plant in Wayne. “You just come here for a photo op. They just want their vote. None of your business. They are not part of the union or the Big Three. Stay in your lane.”
Teaster added that although his workplace, the Michigan Assembly Plant, remains the only Ford plant on strike, the union’s reported progress in talks with Ford is giving hope to workers like him.
“It appears that Ford is coming to the table and negotiating in good faith,” he said. “From what we’ve heard, they agree on most things. You can feel it at work, everyone seems pretty excited. Nobody wants to strike.”
Ford’s proposals to the union include converting all current temporary workers with more than 90 days of experience to full-time employees, an “enhanced” profit-sharing formula that will be extended to temporary workers, the right to strike at plant closings, income and health care, according to the UAW In the event of dismissal and further adjustment of the cost of living, security for up to two years.
Biden and Trump weren’t the only guests on the picket lines this week. U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, that he brought breakfast to striking UAW members in his district on Monday.
Our UAW members helped build the Motor City. Today I brought some breakfast to the picket line where some in my district are striking. As they strike, I oppose the Biden administration and its electric car regulations that would eliminate auto jobs and build China’s middle class in the market. pic.twitter.com/8zoKTuDBQV
– John James (@JohnJamesMI) September 25, 2023
X: @BreanaCNoble
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