WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
A union official with International Automotive Components in Mendon said he is optimistic the Mendon plant will be in the running to potentially land a new launch in 2020.
Frank “Jimmy” Hines, bargaining chairman of UAW Local 503, said workers have been cleaning and reorganizing, and freeing up floor space in hopes of securing a contract for a new General Motors launch in a few years. In the meantime, Hines said he hopes the Mendon location can lure transfer business.
Eighty-three employees lost their jobs Friday due to the end of a platform program for center seats and floor consoles for GM’s larger trucks and SUVs.
Hines said some of the casualties had been with the plant for up to eight years and their average wages were more than $16 an hour. There were also overtime opportunities and strong benefits, Hines noted.
The union was able to negotiate a week’s pay for the affected employees.
