It’s auto talks time. The talks always begin with a ceremonial handshake between the leaders for the unions and the automakers. Monday’s handshake will take place with General Motors officials. Tuesday the union moves on to Fiat Chrysler. The meeting with Ford leaders will not take place until July 23rd. Despite the official handshakes just getting underway, subcommittees have already been underway. The union is expected to name its lead company, or strike target, on September 7th, Labor Day.
This year’s talks come as the auto industry is witnessing its healthiest financial period in more than a decade. That has the union demanding hourly pay raises for the workers for the first time in a decade. They’ve been getting more money every year through profit-sharing bonuses.