Michigan Auto Supply Workers at Ground Effects Unionize with UAW

Michigan Auto Supply Workers Continue Unionization Efforts

In a significant development within the Michigan auto supply sector, workers at Ground Effects have successfully voted to unionize, marking the second such victory in 24 hours. The National Labor Relations Board election concluded with a majority opting to join the United Auto Workers (UAW). Ground Effects is known for manufacturing spray-on truck bedliners along with other aftermarket parts and customizations.

The push for unionization at Ground Effects has been ongoing since last year, driven by concerns over low wages, excessive workloads, mandatory overtime, and issues of managerial misconduct, including favoritism.

This victory follows closely on the heels of another unionization effort, where Webasto Detroit workers voted by a 2-1 margin to become part of the UAW. Their campaign spanned 2.5 years. The success at Ground Effects highlights a growing trend among auto supply chain workers seeking equitable treatment akin to their counterparts in unionized assembly plants.

“Ground Effects workers just showed what courage and determination can do,” said UAW Region 1D Director Steve Dawes. “These workers stood together and stood strong against the underhanded anti-union tactics coming from the boss and their hired guns. Now, Ground Effects workers will have the right to sit with management as equals and negotiate a contract that gives them the dignity and respect they deserve.”