Stellantis and Samsung SDI finalize leasing deal, creating 1,000 jobs

Stellantis and Samsung SDI Partnership Brings Job Growth in Kokomo

The recent finalization of Stellantis' employee leasing agreement at its joint venture battery facility with Samsung SDI marks a significant milestone, resulting in the creation of over 1,000 new roles for United Auto Workers (UAW) members in Kokomo. This development comes amidst Stellantis' efforts to navigate its operational challenges and streamline processes.

The successful negotiation of this leasing agreement was achieved during the 2023 contract talks. However, the implementation faced delays, attributed to the leadership of Carlos Tavares, which led to unmet commitments to the workforce in Kokomo. The perceived failure to uphold agreements has been a driving factor behind calls for Tavares's resignation.

The UAW anticipates positive strides with new Stellantis leadership that acknowledges the contributions of its workforce and is committed to fulfilling its promises to invest in its American workers, who are essential to the company's product development.

With Tavares stepping down, the company addresses issues of past mismanagement and aims to rectify problems such as workforce reductions and unsold high-priced vehicles. The pressure from thousands of UAW members urging Tavares's departure has prompted Stellantis to realign its strategies.

The UAW plans to utilize all available resources to ensure Stellantis meets its 2023 contract obligations. This includes pursuing grievances that could lead to strike actions to guarantee the company's investment promises to workers in Belvidere, Michigan, and other locations. Engagement with the newly appointed CEO is anticipated, supported by the resolve of UAW Stellantis members, to discuss future production strategies for the U.S. market.