Woodbridge Corp workers strike over wages, benefits, and seniority issues

UAW Workers at Woodbridge Corp Begin Strike Over Contract Dispute

LITHONIA, Ga – On the morning of October 30, employees at the Woodbridge Corp – Atlanta Foam, represented by UAW Local 472, initiated a strike action. This decision comes after protracted negotiations with management yielded no significant progress on critical issues concerning wages, benefits, and seniority.

UAW Region 8 Director Tim Smith commented on the situation, stating, “Despite numerous meetings and bargaining sessions, management has yet to make a significant offer on three critical issues for workers: wages, benefits, and seniority.” He added that the company’s stance left workers with no alternative but to strike.

The striking workforce is responsible for producing key components such as seating and dashboards for major clients Yamaha and Nissan. These workers have been operating without a formal contract since the end of September.

On August 22, a significant majority of the workforce, 98%, voted in favor of authorizing the strike.

UAW Local 472 President Rachel Johnson expressed her reasons for striking, stating, “We’re standing together to demand what we’re owed. I’m on strike for better wages, healthcare, and respect for the work I do.”

This strike follows the notable Stand Up strike, where UAW members at the Big Three automakers achieved substantial raises and improved benefits. The Woodbridge workers are among the latest to engage in strike action during contract negotiations, joining other UAW members who have recently secured significant victories, such as those at Cornell University in New York and Daimler Truck in North Carolina.