Volvo Trucks North America (VTNA) and the United Auto Workers (UAW) union reached a tentative agreement on the terms of a new six-year contract, according to an OEM announcement on May 20. The UAW Local No. 2069 voted to reject the previous five-year labor agreement on May 16. Volvo employs approximately 2,900 union workers at its New River Valley (NRV) truck assembly operations in Dublin, Virginia.
The UAW Local No. 2069 went on strike on April 17 over contract negotiations for nearly two weeks, ending on April 30.
According to its Facebook page, Local No. 2069 stated that the bargaining team, along with the assistance of the Heavy Truck Dept. and the Region 8 representatives met with VTNA over the membership’s issues that were submitted.
“We were able to make changes to the previous tentative agreement,” the statement said. “The following are points that will be communicated to membership.”
- Six-year tentative agreement
- Retiree lump sum bonus increased
- Letter of understanding: Benefit entitlements for retirees to include potential onsite pharmacy
- Reduced eight-year wage progressions to six-year wage progression
- 12% GWI for core group (Top pay for 01 at end of contract will be $30.92)
- Alternative work schedule: By mutual agreement with the Union and MUST BE VOTED on by membership within the affected department
- New attendance policy: Does allow to leave early with permission
- Effective date termination of the contract: Clearly states six-year contract. That cannot open any earlier than 60 days prior to April 29, 2027
- Eliminated "Leadman position" for Skilled Trades
- Notice of daily overtime: Must be given no later than the midpoint of the shift. Unless an emergency that is defined
- Insurance Premiums will be equal to every group starting in 2022. Reduced premiums from the last Tentative Agreement.
- Insurance plan design: Out of pocket maximum was reduced. More details to follow.
A vote for ratification of the contract will be conducted on Wednesday, June 2, from 5 a.m.-5 p.m., at Local 2069 Union Hall. Once all votes are tallied, UAW will provide further comment.
According to Volvo, the NRV plant employs more than 3,300 people, about 2,900 of whom are UAW members. The plant is in the midst of receiving $400 million in advanced technology upgrades and site expansion to prepare for future products, including the Volvo VNR Electric truck, which is slated for the serial production launch this spring.
