December 21, 2012 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
•From Chairman Mike Bullock: I’ve got a couple of quick items to pass along: I signed off on retaining our temporary employees through February (they were originally scheduled to be laid off this week); and the in-plant eyeglass store is closing and safety glasses will be handled by the Eye Care Center of O’Fallon beginning in January. Also, layoff instruction forms are available at the entrances. Finally, I want to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season and we’ll see you back on Jan. 22
•With this being the final edition of the State of the Union for 2012, we thought we’d take a look back at what was a very eventful year. It began with the long awaited return of the second shift and the addition of 430+ employees. December 2011 sales were reported and we sold nearly 11,000 that month. And we booked our first large order for CNG vans – 1200 for AT&T.
February saw the production ramp up continue and the beginning of Friday overtime production on the 2 on, 1 off cadence. The plant hit full line rate at the end of February. We also found out that we would receive a record profit sharing payout of $7000.
In March the overtime continued apace. There were 24 of our skilled trades members who accepted the special attrition package and retired at the end of the month. Unfortunately, we also announced a recall of 6000 vans because of a steering shaft defect.
In April we started the first ever Weight Loss Challenge. Chevrolet unveiled the redesigned Impala, continuing the remake of the Chevy car lineup that began with the Cruze, Malibu and Sonic. Nissan introduced the passenger version of their fullsize van to a collective yawn. In the meantime, a Chevy Express 4500 was pitted against an Econoline 450, each cutaways with identical boxes loaded to the max, in real world testing. ”Frankly, we were very surprised at the large gap in performance between these two trucks,” said Guy Mangiamele, AMCI Director of Vehicle Testing. “As the data clearly shows, the Ford E-450 simply had very little performance reserve at these weights compared to the Chevy 4500. And when you consider the Chevy’s real-world fuel economy advantage in percentage terms, it has cost-of-ownership implications over the lifetime of the vehicle.” On cue, the Express took home the Vincentric Best Fleet Value award for the 5th consecutive year. The month ended with our annual Earth Day, a successful gate drive ($4400) for March of Dimes March for Babies and our best ever torque audit – 100% compliance in every category.
In May we finally had our official groundbreaking ceremony for the new body shop, hosting Gov. Jay Nixon among others and garnering a lot of positive media coverage. Chevrolet announced plans to sell a large rear-wheel drive sedan to be called the SS, which will also double as the NASCAR entry. Van sales once again topped 10,000 units. And GM reported North American earnings of $1.7 billion.
June continued the upward trend of van sales, once again topping 10,000 and rising 33% over the previous year. We hosted nearly 100 upfitter representatives at the plant and gave them and the marketing team a tour of the shop. GM announced that they would be shutting down the Impala assembly line at Oshawa, Canada and move the production to Hamtramck, as well as moving some Equinox production from Canada to Spring Hill as contract talks with the CAW approached.
Van sales peaked in July, coming in just shy of 12,000 – up a whopping 82% and the best result since 2006. The plant passed an ISO recertification audit with only 2 minor non-conformances (other plants were getting 8 or more). GM reported 2nd quarter North American earnings of $2 billion.
In August we acknowledged a milestone of sorts with 5 of our members achieving 45 years of seniority. We finally got to model change and with it the highly anticipated 4 weeks of shutdown. During that time 700+ contractors descended on the plant for major projects in paint, frame schedule and to the conveyors along the 40 aisle. This ultimately wound up being 6 weeks as van sales softened in August and plummeted in September to 4886. And sadly, our longtime Regional Director (and 2250’s first shop chairman) Jim Wells unexpectedly passed away.
October was audit month with both the ISO environmental audit and the UAW-GM Health and Safety audits occurring – both of which turned out very well. GM announced 3rd quarter North American earnings of $1.8 billion. Plant manager John Dansby announced his retirement and Nancy Laubenthal was named as his replacement – the 9th plant manager here since 2000. October van sales recoverd a little but were still down 10% from 2011.
In November, with vital support from the UAW, President Barack Obama was reelected as well as Missouri Governor Jay Nixon and Senator Claire McCaskill. We welcomed back over 8o of our brothers and sisters from Fairfax. November van sales were about the same as October at a bit over 7000. GM announced that the salaried pension plan will be transferred to Prudential in the form of a $25 billion annuity.
Which brings us to December, when we sponsored 155 needy children with the Adopt-A-Child program. Five of our vans were upfitted for wheelchairs and donated to veteran’s hospitals, including John Cochran in St. Louis. The new body shop roof is nearly complete as all of the main columns are in place. Another 4 weeks of downtime awaits as the paint shop will have the other color booth torn apart and rebuilt with state-of-the-art equipment in preparation for the Colorado/Canyon. More conveyor work will occur on the 40 aisle. So let’s enjoy our time off with family and friends over this extended holiday season. Be safe and come back rested and refreshed. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Friday, December 21, 2012
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
State of the Union December 18, 2012
December 18, 2012 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
· From Chairman Mike Bullock: We received a clarification from General Motors and the International Union pertaining to entry level wage and pay progression. Here it is:
Group 1: 1) Employees on roll prior to 10/3/2011
2) Pay rate at ratification is based on service date, not number of weeks worked
3) Additional pay increases will be 9/15/2012 and 9/15/2013
4) Pay progression does not apply to group 1
5) Wage rate will be $19.28 for all group 1 employees on 9/15/2013
Group 2:
1) Employees hired on or after 10/3/2011 or employees that have had a change in employement status after that date such as temp to entry level.
2) Pay rate and progression does apply to group 2 and is based on 52 weeks worked to advance to next step
3) New hire $15.78
After 52 working weeks $16.66
After 104 working weeks $17.53
After 156 working weeks $18.41
After 208 working weeks $19.28
A working week is defined as a week an employee will receive one week’s credit toward acquiring the maximum base rate of the job classification provided the employee had worked in the given week. Credit will not be given for any week during which for any reason the employee does not work except as provided in paragraph 108 (work comp leave of absence) and when the Christmas holidays consists of a full week, provided the employee would otherwise have been scheduled to work. Notwithstanding other provisions of this agreement, full weeks of time lost for vacation during the plant vacation shutdown week(s), bereavement, military duty and family medical leave act, if the employee would otherwise have been scheduled to work, will be considered as time worked. Each increase shall be effective at the beginning of the first pay period following the completion of the required number of weeks of employment. (paragraph 98(6) national agreement)
· Also: We have been told by the National Benefits Center that all employees with 1 year or more seniority are entitled to Sub Pay and Short Work Week benefits per the National guidelines.
· Attention: It is very important to make sure you have updated contact information for General Motors (address, phone number etc.). This must be done online. Go to MySocrates at www.mygm.gm.comand click on the “Personal” tab. If you do not have an account you must set one up.
· We have been informed that effective the first pay period of January, 2013 there will be a new payroll system. Here is the notification from GM Payroll Services:
Hourly Payroll Changes
Effective with the first pay in January 2013, GM US Hourly Payroll will migrate to a new payroll system. Access to employee online pay statements (iPAY) will remain active and unchanged. In addition to paper copies mailed to each employee, the 2012-W2 will be available online through iPAY by the end of January 2013. Employee questions can be directed to the GFSS Call Center at
HOURLYTIMEKEEPINGCENTER@gm.comor 866-245-5957.
Also, effective January 1-2013 GM FSS-Payroll Services will pay Supplemental Unemployment Benefit (SUB) and Sickness and Accident (S&A) benefits. Payroll will pay SUB and Hourly S&A payments on the same direct deposit or pay card as the regular payroll. Please note that CISA and Sedgwick will continue to administer the programs. Questions concerning eligibility for payments should be directed to Fidelity at 1-800-489-4646. All other questions can be answered by the GFSS Call Center at HOURLYTIMEKEEPINGCENTER@gm.comor 866-245-5957.
· The UAW and General Motors will present a van to the VA St. Louis Health Care System this Thursday morning. These vans are specially adapted to accommodate veterans using wheelchairs or who have other mobility issues and will be used for transporting veterans to medical appointments and other activities.
· From Automotive News: UAW President Bob King said he expects few defections by his members when Michigan's right-to-work law takes effect in March. Unionized workers at parts suppliers will be among the first to test King's confidence. As supplier contracts with the UAW expire and are renewed or negotiated after the law takes effect, employees will be able to leave the union. King said the union is providing value to members, as evidenced by the fact that 90 percent of UAW-represented auto workers in right-to-work states have chosen to stay in the union. "We're going to continue doing the best job we can and be rewarded with the loyalty of the membership," King said. He spoke by phone from Geneva, where he was attending a meeting of global union federations. King said the best way to keep members from leaving the union is to bargain hard for wages and benefits and continue to represent worker interests in health, safety and work rules. "That's why there's solidarity in the workplace," King said.
· Ford has released more information about the full-size Transit van slated to replace the Econoline. Scheduled for sale in the fall of 2014, The Transit will arrive with a choice of three body lengths, two wheelbases and three roof heights. In its maximum passenger-carrying specification, the Transit will carry 15 people. It will be offered in van, wagon, chassis cab and cutaway versions. Engine choices will include Ford's 3.7-liter V6, the EcoBoost V6 and a new 3.2-liter Power Stroke diesel – no V8 engines.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
· From Chairman Mike Bullock: We received a clarification from General Motors and the International Union pertaining to entry level wage and pay progression. Here it is:
Group 1: 1) Employees on roll prior to 10/3/2011
2) Pay rate at ratification is based on service date, not number of weeks worked
3) Additional pay increases will be 9/15/2012 and 9/15/2013
4) Pay progression does not apply to group 1
5) Wage rate will be $19.28 for all group 1 employees on 9/15/2013
Group 2:
1) Employees hired on or after 10/3/2011 or employees that have had a change in employement status after that date such as temp to entry level.
2) Pay rate and progression does apply to group 2 and is based on 52 weeks worked to advance to next step
3) New hire $15.78
After 52 working weeks $16.66
After 104 working weeks $17.53
After 156 working weeks $18.41
After 208 working weeks $19.28
A working week is defined as a week an employee will receive one week’s credit toward acquiring the maximum base rate of the job classification provided the employee had worked in the given week. Credit will not be given for any week during which for any reason the employee does not work except as provided in paragraph 108 (work comp leave of absence) and when the Christmas holidays consists of a full week, provided the employee would otherwise have been scheduled to work. Notwithstanding other provisions of this agreement, full weeks of time lost for vacation during the plant vacation shutdown week(s), bereavement, military duty and family medical leave act, if the employee would otherwise have been scheduled to work, will be considered as time worked. Each increase shall be effective at the beginning of the first pay period following the completion of the required number of weeks of employment. (paragraph 98(6) national agreement)
· Also: We have been told by the National Benefits Center that all employees with 1 year or more seniority are entitled to Sub Pay and Short Work Week benefits per the National guidelines.
· Attention: It is very important to make sure you have updated contact information for General Motors (address, phone number etc.). This must be done online. Go to MySocrates at www.mygm.gm.comand click on the “Personal” tab. If you do not have an account you must set one up.
· We have been informed that effective the first pay period of January, 2013 there will be a new payroll system. Here is the notification from GM Payroll Services:
Hourly Payroll Changes
Effective with the first pay in January 2013, GM US Hourly Payroll will migrate to a new payroll system. Access to employee online pay statements (iPAY) will remain active and unchanged. In addition to paper copies mailed to each employee, the 2012-W2 will be available online through iPAY by the end of January 2013. Employee questions can be directed to the GFSS Call Center at
HOURLYTIMEKEEPINGCENTER@gm.comor 866-245-5957.
Also, effective January 1-2013 GM FSS-Payroll Services will pay Supplemental Unemployment Benefit (SUB) and Sickness and Accident (S&A) benefits. Payroll will pay SUB and Hourly S&A payments on the same direct deposit or pay card as the regular payroll. Please note that CISA and Sedgwick will continue to administer the programs. Questions concerning eligibility for payments should be directed to Fidelity at 1-800-489-4646. All other questions can be answered by the GFSS Call Center at HOURLYTIMEKEEPINGCENTER@gm.comor 866-245-5957.
· The UAW and General Motors will present a van to the VA St. Louis Health Care System this Thursday morning. These vans are specially adapted to accommodate veterans using wheelchairs or who have other mobility issues and will be used for transporting veterans to medical appointments and other activities.
· From Automotive News: UAW President Bob King said he expects few defections by his members when Michigan's right-to-work law takes effect in March. Unionized workers at parts suppliers will be among the first to test King's confidence. As supplier contracts with the UAW expire and are renewed or negotiated after the law takes effect, employees will be able to leave the union. King said the union is providing value to members, as evidenced by the fact that 90 percent of UAW-represented auto workers in right-to-work states have chosen to stay in the union. "We're going to continue doing the best job we can and be rewarded with the loyalty of the membership," King said. He spoke by phone from Geneva, where he was attending a meeting of global union federations. King said the best way to keep members from leaving the union is to bargain hard for wages and benefits and continue to represent worker interests in health, safety and work rules. "That's why there's solidarity in the workplace," King said.
· Ford has released more information about the full-size Transit van slated to replace the Econoline. Scheduled for sale in the fall of 2014, The Transit will arrive with a choice of three body lengths, two wheelbases and three roof heights. In its maximum passenger-carrying specification, the Transit will carry 15 people. It will be offered in van, wagon, chassis cab and cutaway versions. Engine choices will include Ford's 3.7-liter V6, the EcoBoost V6 and a new 3.2-liter Power Stroke diesel – no V8 engines.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
December 12, 2012 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
There will be a CAP Committee meeting today between shifts at the Union Hall. There will also be a Civil Rights Committee meeting Monday, Dec. 17 at 3 pm at the Union Hall. In both cases, all are welcome.
A total of $914 was raised with the Pre-trim bake sale for Adopt-A-Child. This year employees have “adopted” 155 children. Thanks to everyone who has supported this great cause.
For 2nd shift VAP drivers, Pat Workman will be working a split shift this week to help you get signed up for your overnight drive vehicle. See Pat at the suggestions office through 7:30 p.m. to fill out your driver’s pass.
The annual Chassis Christmas Party will be this Friday, Dec. 14 after first shift at Maggie Malones (990 Wentzville Pkwy, Wentzville). There will be free food from 4 pm – 6 pm, drink specials, prizes, live music and a visit from Santa! All are welcome. For more info contact Susan Daniel (Picou) at column F43.
From the International Union UAW: More than 17,000 Michigan residents from all walks of life rallied Tuesday outside the State Capitol building as anti-worker legislators heeded Gov. Rick Snyder’s call to divide Michigan by ramming through a so-called “right-to-work” bill which promises to kill jobs, lower wages, crush workers’ rights and unravel the middle class. Snyder, who seemingly misled the public by announcing he would sign the bill Wednesday, waited until the thousands who had gathered outside the capital returned home before calling a last-minute press conference and bill signing on Tuesday night. Earlier this year, Snyder called the legislation “divisive” and “not part of his agenda.” Now, after his party lost seats in the Michigan House of Representatives, Snyder rushed the bill through in just six days, with no public hearing. The bill reverse decades of balanced labor law in Michigan, which has yielded stable industrial relations, good middle-class jobs, and broadly shared prosperity. Studies have shown that workers in so-called “right to work” states earn an average of $1,500 less annually. Continued citizen protests are expected throughout the state in coming days and months. Workers are weighing political, legal and legislative options as well, including putting the measure on the ballot in 2014 (the same year that Snyder is up for re-election), a move similar to what Ohio voters did in 2011 when they overturned an anti-worker law championed by their governor.
Wards Auto has named their 10 Best Engines for 2013. This year’s winners:
Here’s what they had to say about the Cadillace 2.0L : Another stout 2.0L direct-injection turbocharged 4-cyl. that muscles its way back into the winners’ circle with a remarkable 136 hp/L comes from General Motors, in the all-new rear-wheel-drive Cadillac ATS. This engine replaces a similar 2.0L Ecotec turbo that won a Ward’s 10 Best Engines award last year in the front-wheel-drive Buick Regal GS. But the new version reduces engine friction some 16%; incorporates a more-active continuously variable valve timing system for better breathing; boosts highway fuel economy 4 mpg (1.7 km/L); and positions the ATS to compete head-on with well-established German brands. GM developed the 2.0L turbo alongside a new naturally aspirated 2.5L 4-cyl., which also was a contender, and the two engines share some componentry, which makes both engines more profitable than those they replace. That’s smart engineering. Installation volumes also will be higher for both engines, which power the ATS and new Chevrolet Malibu.
From Automotive News: Ram will appoint more dealerships to handle a growing lineup of commercial pickups, chassis cabs and vans, brand chief Fred Diaz says.
About one quarter of Chrysler Group's 2,400 U.S. dealerships have the BusinessLink designation. They can sell and service Ram's commercial vehicles and promise to give service priority to commercial customers. Dealerships must "have next-available-bay service, because if something's wrong, you have to be able to get [commercial customers] in and get them out," Diaz said last month at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Ram is preparing a re-engineered lineup of heavy-duty pickups and chassis cabs in early 2013 as well as a rebadged Fiat Ducato full-sized van that it will call the Ram ProMaster later in the year. The van will allow Ram to compete for commercial customers who need pickups and vans. Chrysler Group hasn't had a full-sized commercial van since the Sprinter went to Mercedes in January 2010 after Chrysler's trip through Bankruptcy Court in 2009.
When the Ram ProMaster van is introduced in the third quarter of 2013, it will be the only full-sized commercial van in its segment with front-wheel drive. This will give it a lower load floor than competitors but could reduce traction if the van's load is placed at the extreme rear of the vehicle. Diaz said fwd is an advantage, especially in snowy climates. "I think it's something that we're going to tout, particularly in those northern states and snow states where front-wheel drive is far more acceptable than it is in other parts of the world." At least one other commercial van is in the works. In September, Chrysler trademarked the name ProMaster City for potential use on a smaller commercial van from Fiat, the Doblo. Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
There will be a CAP Committee meeting today between shifts at the Union Hall. There will also be a Civil Rights Committee meeting Monday, Dec. 17 at 3 pm at the Union Hall. In both cases, all are welcome.
A total of $914 was raised with the Pre-trim bake sale for Adopt-A-Child. This year employees have “adopted” 155 children. Thanks to everyone who has supported this great cause.
For 2nd shift VAP drivers, Pat Workman will be working a split shift this week to help you get signed up for your overnight drive vehicle. See Pat at the suggestions office through 7:30 p.m. to fill out your driver’s pass.
The annual Chassis Christmas Party will be this Friday, Dec. 14 after first shift at Maggie Malones (990 Wentzville Pkwy, Wentzville). There will be free food from 4 pm – 6 pm, drink specials, prizes, live music and a visit from Santa! All are welcome. For more info contact Susan Daniel (Picou) at column F43.
From the International Union UAW: More than 17,000 Michigan residents from all walks of life rallied Tuesday outside the State Capitol building as anti-worker legislators heeded Gov. Rick Snyder’s call to divide Michigan by ramming through a so-called “right-to-work” bill which promises to kill jobs, lower wages, crush workers’ rights and unravel the middle class. Snyder, who seemingly misled the public by announcing he would sign the bill Wednesday, waited until the thousands who had gathered outside the capital returned home before calling a last-minute press conference and bill signing on Tuesday night. Earlier this year, Snyder called the legislation “divisive” and “not part of his agenda.” Now, after his party lost seats in the Michigan House of Representatives, Snyder rushed the bill through in just six days, with no public hearing. The bill reverse decades of balanced labor law in Michigan, which has yielded stable industrial relations, good middle-class jobs, and broadly shared prosperity. Studies have shown that workers in so-called “right to work” states earn an average of $1,500 less annually. Continued citizen protests are expected throughout the state in coming days and months. Workers are weighing political, legal and legislative options as well, including putting the measure on the ballot in 2014 (the same year that Snyder is up for re-election), a move similar to what Ohio voters did in 2011 when they overturned an anti-worker law championed by their governor.
Wards Auto has named their 10 Best Engines for 2013. This year’s winners:
- 3.0L TFSI Supercharged DOHC V-6 (Audi S5)
- 2.0L N20 Turbocharged DOHC I-4 (BMW328i)
- 3.0L N55 Turbocharged DOHC I-6 (BMW 135is coupe)
- 3.6L Pentastar DOHC V-6 (Ram 1500)
- 2.0L EcoBoost DOHC I-4 (FordFocus ST/Taurus)
- 5.8L Supercharged DOHC V-8 (Ford Shelby GT500)
- 2.0L Turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Cadillac ATS)
- 2.4L DOHC I-4 (HondaAccord Sport)
- 3.5L SOHC V-6 (Honda Accord)
- 2.0L FA DOHC H-4 Boxer (Subaru BRZ)
Here’s what they had to say about the Cadillace 2.0L : Another stout 2.0L direct-injection turbocharged 4-cyl. that muscles its way back into the winners’ circle with a remarkable 136 hp/L comes from General Motors, in the all-new rear-wheel-drive Cadillac ATS. This engine replaces a similar 2.0L Ecotec turbo that won a Ward’s 10 Best Engines award last year in the front-wheel-drive Buick Regal GS. But the new version reduces engine friction some 16%; incorporates a more-active continuously variable valve timing system for better breathing; boosts highway fuel economy 4 mpg (1.7 km/L); and positions the ATS to compete head-on with well-established German brands. GM developed the 2.0L turbo alongside a new naturally aspirated 2.5L 4-cyl., which also was a contender, and the two engines share some componentry, which makes both engines more profitable than those they replace. That’s smart engineering. Installation volumes also will be higher for both engines, which power the ATS and new Chevrolet Malibu.
From Automotive News: Ram will appoint more dealerships to handle a growing lineup of commercial pickups, chassis cabs and vans, brand chief Fred Diaz says.
About one quarter of Chrysler Group's 2,400 U.S. dealerships have the BusinessLink designation. They can sell and service Ram's commercial vehicles and promise to give service priority to commercial customers. Dealerships must "have next-available-bay service, because if something's wrong, you have to be able to get [commercial customers] in and get them out," Diaz said last month at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Ram is preparing a re-engineered lineup of heavy-duty pickups and chassis cabs in early 2013 as well as a rebadged Fiat Ducato full-sized van that it will call the Ram ProMaster later in the year. The van will allow Ram to compete for commercial customers who need pickups and vans. Chrysler Group hasn't had a full-sized commercial van since the Sprinter went to Mercedes in January 2010 after Chrysler's trip through Bankruptcy Court in 2009.
When the Ram ProMaster van is introduced in the third quarter of 2013, it will be the only full-sized commercial van in its segment with front-wheel drive. This will give it a lower load floor than competitors but could reduce traction if the van's load is placed at the extreme rear of the vehicle. Diaz said fwd is an advantage, especially in snowy climates. "I think it's something that we're going to tout, particularly in those northern states and snow states where front-wheel drive is far more acceptable than it is in other parts of the world." At least one other commercial van is in the works. In September, Chrysler trademarked the name ProMaster City for potential use on a smaller commercial van from Fiat, the Doblo. Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
State of the Union December 5, 2012
December 5, 2012 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
The annual Pre-Trim bake sale will be Monday, Dec. 10. The sale will begin at first break on both shifts and continue until all items are sold. It will be held at the team center at column T-49. Proceeds will go to support the Adopt-A-Child program. Anyone wishing to donate bakery items can drop them off at the team center.
If you were chosen for an overnight drive (VAP) you need to see Pat Workman at the Suggestions office to fill out your driver’s pass and receive instructions about the guidelines of the program. You will need to present your driver’s license at that time as well. The master schedule is posted in the cafeteria. We also recommend that you familiarize yourself with the vehicle before hitting the road as some of the vehicles have technology and controls that you haven’t used before.
As reported, van sales rose 14.7% in November, the best result for that month since 2008. Here is how the rest of the segment fared:
---
Field supplies as measured in days was virtually unchanged at 61. Overall units in the field were up almost 1500, with cargo vans accounting for the bulk of the increase. Passenger van supplies continue to be very low, with a little less than 1100 total (GM has 4400 dealers).
TrueCar.com a research and forecasting company, estimated the average transaction price for light vehicles in the U.S. in November totaled $30,832, which is up $335 or 1.1% from November 2011 and up $346 or 1.1% from this past October. TrueCar also estimated the average incentive is $2,764, which marks an increase of $117 or 4.4% from the year-earlier period and a jump of $447 or 19% from alst October.2012. The estimated ratio of incentives to average transaction prices wass 9% in November, which is up from 8.7% a year earlier and up from 7.6% in October 2012.
From the Wall Street Journal: General Motors Co. plans to drive the styling of its top-selling pickup trucks away from the rough and rugged looks of the past decade when it launches redesigned models next year, the head of the auto maker's North American operations said on Wednesday.
Redesigned large Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups are due out next year, to be followed by a new line of smaller pickups in 2014 to lure customers who are willing to accept less towing power or payload capacity for better fuel economy. The large pickups are GM's highest-volume models in the U.S., and analysts estimate they generate an outsize share of the auto maker's global profits.
Mark Reuss, head of GM's North American operations, said the company's new large trucks will mark a departure from recent years during which GM and its leading rivals in the segment-F ord Motor Co.'s F-series trucks, Chrysler Group LLC's Ram line, Toyota Motor Corp.'s Tundra and Nissan Motor Corp.'s Titan-all strove to project tough images with "big, big chrome grilles" and front ends that borrowed the looks of long-haul Class 8 trucks.
"When you see our [new] trucks, they'll look powerful, but not overdone," Mr. Reuss said. "The truck market is changing. People are ready to see something beautiful, refined and highly engineered."
Mr. Reuss also elaborated on GM's strategy to use two different truck lines to respond to consumer demand for greater fuel efficiency. GM archrival Ford has scored a hit with a version of its F-150 pickup that uses a turbocharged, six-cylinder engine-b randed "EcoBoost"-to achieve a rating of 22 highway miles on a gallon of gasoline, better than either the six- or eight-cylinder engines offered in the current Silverado.
Mr. Reuss said GM's new smaller trucks should outdo the EcoBoost, and give GM a truck it can use to compete with Toyota's popular Tacoma model, which appeals to people who want a "lifestyle" truck for play rather than work. These customers "want 90% of the duty cycle, and 120% of the fuel economy" of a large pickup such as the Silverado, Mr. Reuss said.
GM is also looking at offering a diesel engine in its new light-duty trucks-a move that could yield better fuel-efficiency numbers. Mr. Reuss didn't offer details.
During the first 10 months of this year, sales of Ford's F-series lineup have grown 11%, driven in part by demand for the EcoBoost models, while Silverado sales have risen just 1.3%, according to Autodata Corp. Mr. Reuss indicated he expects that trend to change.
"We've had the oldest trucks in the market," Mr. Reuss said. "And now we'll have the newest."
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
The annual Pre-Trim bake sale will be Monday, Dec. 10. The sale will begin at first break on both shifts and continue until all items are sold. It will be held at the team center at column T-49. Proceeds will go to support the Adopt-A-Child program. Anyone wishing to donate bakery items can drop them off at the team center.
If you were chosen for an overnight drive (VAP) you need to see Pat Workman at the Suggestions office to fill out your driver’s pass and receive instructions about the guidelines of the program. You will need to present your driver’s license at that time as well. The master schedule is posted in the cafeteria. We also recommend that you familiarize yourself with the vehicle before hitting the road as some of the vehicles have technology and controls that you haven’t used before.
As reported, van sales rose 14.7% in November, the best result for that month since 2008. Here is how the rest of the segment fared:
| 2012 | 2011 | Change | Share | |
| Ford Econoline | 8400 | 7795 | +7.8% | 46.4% |
| GM | 7021 | 6119 | +14.7% | 38.8% |
| Mercedes Sprinter | 1630 | 1045 | +56% | 9.0% |
| Nissan NV | 1042 | 1238 | -15.8% | 5.8% |
| Ford Transit connect | 2853 | 2717 | +5% | ---- |
Field supplies as measured in days was virtually unchanged at 61. Overall units in the field were up almost 1500, with cargo vans accounting for the bulk of the increase. Passenger van supplies continue to be very low, with a little less than 1100 total (GM has 4400 dealers).
TrueCar.com a research and forecasting company, estimated the average transaction price for light vehicles in the U.S. in November totaled $30,832, which is up $335 or 1.1% from November 2011 and up $346 or 1.1% from this past October. TrueCar also estimated the average incentive is $2,764, which marks an increase of $117 or 4.4% from the year-earlier period and a jump of $447 or 19% from alst October.2012. The estimated ratio of incentives to average transaction prices wass 9% in November, which is up from 8.7% a year earlier and up from 7.6% in October 2012.
From the Wall Street Journal: General Motors Co. plans to drive the styling of its top-selling pickup trucks away from the rough and rugged looks of the past decade when it launches redesigned models next year, the head of the auto maker's North American operations said on Wednesday.
Redesigned large Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups are due out next year, to be followed by a new line of smaller pickups in 2014 to lure customers who are willing to accept less towing power or payload capacity for better fuel economy. The large pickups are GM's highest-volume models in the U.S., and analysts estimate they generate an outsize share of the auto maker's global profits.
Mark Reuss, head of GM's North American operations, said the company's new large trucks will mark a departure from recent years during which GM and its leading rivals in the segment-F ord Motor Co.'s F-series trucks, Chrysler Group LLC's Ram line, Toyota Motor Corp.'s Tundra and Nissan Motor Corp.'s Titan-all strove to project tough images with "big, big chrome grilles" and front ends that borrowed the looks of long-haul Class 8 trucks.
"When you see our [new] trucks, they'll look powerful, but not overdone," Mr. Reuss said. "The truck market is changing. People are ready to see something beautiful, refined and highly engineered."
Mr. Reuss also elaborated on GM's strategy to use two different truck lines to respond to consumer demand for greater fuel efficiency. GM archrival Ford has scored a hit with a version of its F-150 pickup that uses a turbocharged, six-cylinder engine-b randed "EcoBoost"-to achieve a rating of 22 highway miles on a gallon of gasoline, better than either the six- or eight-cylinder engines offered in the current Silverado.
Mr. Reuss said GM's new smaller trucks should outdo the EcoBoost, and give GM a truck it can use to compete with Toyota's popular Tacoma model, which appeals to people who want a "lifestyle" truck for play rather than work. These customers "want 90% of the duty cycle, and 120% of the fuel economy" of a large pickup such as the Silverado, Mr. Reuss said.
GM is also looking at offering a diesel engine in its new light-duty trucks-a move that could yield better fuel-efficiency numbers. Mr. Reuss didn't offer details.
During the first 10 months of this year, sales of Ford's F-series lineup have grown 11%, driven in part by demand for the EcoBoost models, while Silverado sales have risen just 1.3%, according to Autodata Corp. Mr. Reuss indicated he expects that trend to change.
"We've had the oldest trucks in the market," Mr. Reuss said. "And now we'll have the newest."
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Thursday, November 29, 2012
State of the Union November 29, 2012
November 29, 2012 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
The December production schedule is out. Contrary to some rumors, there will be production the week of the 17th. Overall, daily production remains 544 combined for both shifts. The Christmas holiday period runs from Dec. 22 through Jan. 1 and there will be no production through the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on Monday, Jan 21. As of now, production is scheduled to resume Jan. 22.
The annual Pre-Trim bake sale will be Monday, Dec. 10. The sale will begin at first break on both shifts and continue until all items are sold. It will be held at the team center at column T-49. Proceeds will go to support the Adopt-A-Child program. Anyone wishing to donate bakery items can drop them off at the team center.
There will be a GM employees and family event this Sunday, Dec. 2 at Shoe Carnival from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm. Just show your employee ID and get an additional 30% off, including sale prices, at the O’Fallon (2209 Highway K) and St. Charles (3867 Mexico Rd, Cave Springs Crossing) stores.
From Automotive News: The Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid landed atop Consumer Reports' annual owner-satisfaction ranking for the second straight year. Ninety-two percent of responding Volt owners in a poll of the magazine's subscribers said they definitely would buy a Volt again, tops among 240 models, the magazine said today. The Volt's two-year reign "points to the continuing trend of owners' enthusiasm for cars that are fuel-efficient cars, especially as we see more and more hybrid and electric models hitting the market," Rik Paul, Consumer Reports' auto editor, said in a statement. It's also affirmation for GM executives who've battled bad press from early soft sales, scathing criticism from opponents of green-car subsidies, and a late 2011 federal safety probe into battery fires that turned up no significant risks. The Nissan Versa sedan received the lowest rating from owners. Scores are based on the percentage of respondents who answered "definitely yes" to the following question: "Considering all factors -- price, reliability, comfort, enjoyment, etc., -- would you get this car if you had it to do all over again?" The Volt was joined in the winner’s circle by the Corvette, Silverado and Avalanche. Brand nationality doesn’t seem to have a strong effect on owner satisfaction: The 44 top-rated models include 16 American, 14 Asian, and 14 European vehicles.
From the Wall Street Journal: The U.S. auto industry is poised to report November sales cruised to another four-year high, a sign that the domestic market has returned to health even while Europe and Asia sales falter. Industry executives interviewed ahead of this week's Los Angeles Auto Show said November results, due out next week, should continue the year's big gains. Some analysts estimate November sales could hit an annualized selling pace of 15.2 million cars and light trucks-the strongest single monthly showing since 2008. Next year, U.S. sales are projected to reach between 14.5 million and just over 15 million cars and light trucks, a third consecutive year of growth. U.S. sales this year are projected to hit 14.4 million vehicles. Auto executives are watching the debate over federal taxes and spending, and are concerned about the risks should President Obama and Congress fail to reach a resolution. But for now, they say more U.S. consumers are willing to buy.
Reid Bigland, Chrysler Group LLC's Dodge brand chief, says, "If you look at the automotive industry and you benchmark November, it's kind of like what fiscal cliff?" The biggest factor in the optimism for 2013 U.S. auto sales is the advanced age of so many of the 245 million cars and light trucks now on the road. "The U.S. is a rolling junkyard," says Jim O'Sullivan, president of Mazda Motor Corp.'s North American unit. The average car on the road in the U.S. is now a record 11 years old, industry executives say and about 20% are 16 years old. When customers wheel their rattletraps into showrooms, they're also finding credit is relatively cheap and available. "Banks that weren't financing…are financing now," Mr. O'Sullivan says.
A third engine for U.S. auto demand is a volley of new cars and trucks, many on display Wednesday at the convention center here, that offer customers significant advances in fuel efficiency, safety and entertainment technology compared with cars made four or five years ago, let alone 11 years ago. The owner of an 11-year-old, six cylinder Ford Explorer that averages about 15 miles on a gallon of gasoline could replace it with a 2013 Explorer that gets up to 23 mpg with a four-cylinder, turbocharged "EcoBoost" model and use the difference to help fund a loan, say car makers. "We are seeing wholesale refreshes of significant segments. That is unprecedented," says Jim Farley, Ford's global sales and marketing chief.
Still, auto executives here say the uncertainty over future tax rates and federal spending must be resolved soon. "I don't think many people will forgive the politicians if just through stalemate, they don't find a more bipartisan way forward," said Jonathan Browning, head of Volkswagen AG's U.S. operations. Mr. Browning is more cautious than some of his rivals about near term U.S. industry growth. "I still describe it as a choppy growth," he says. Industry executives here say that even if the worst case scenarios for the economy come to pass and the nation slips back into recession, they are better prepared than in the past.
Annual U.S. sales could fall to as few as 10 million to 11 million vehicles and GM and most other auto makers could still break even, said Mark Reuss, head of General Motors's North American operations, "The industry is in a completely different place in its ability to adapt to different [sales] levels and make money," said Mr. Reuss.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
The December production schedule is out. Contrary to some rumors, there will be production the week of the 17th. Overall, daily production remains 544 combined for both shifts. The Christmas holiday period runs from Dec. 22 through Jan. 1 and there will be no production through the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on Monday, Jan 21. As of now, production is scheduled to resume Jan. 22.
The annual Pre-Trim bake sale will be Monday, Dec. 10. The sale will begin at first break on both shifts and continue until all items are sold. It will be held at the team center at column T-49. Proceeds will go to support the Adopt-A-Child program. Anyone wishing to donate bakery items can drop them off at the team center.
There will be a GM employees and family event this Sunday, Dec. 2 at Shoe Carnival from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm. Just show your employee ID and get an additional 30% off, including sale prices, at the O’Fallon (2209 Highway K) and St. Charles (3867 Mexico Rd, Cave Springs Crossing) stores.
From Automotive News: The Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid landed atop Consumer Reports' annual owner-satisfaction ranking for the second straight year. Ninety-two percent of responding Volt owners in a poll of the magazine's subscribers said they definitely would buy a Volt again, tops among 240 models, the magazine said today. The Volt's two-year reign "points to the continuing trend of owners' enthusiasm for cars that are fuel-efficient cars, especially as we see more and more hybrid and electric models hitting the market," Rik Paul, Consumer Reports' auto editor, said in a statement. It's also affirmation for GM executives who've battled bad press from early soft sales, scathing criticism from opponents of green-car subsidies, and a late 2011 federal safety probe into battery fires that turned up no significant risks. The Nissan Versa sedan received the lowest rating from owners. Scores are based on the percentage of respondents who answered "definitely yes" to the following question: "Considering all factors -- price, reliability, comfort, enjoyment, etc., -- would you get this car if you had it to do all over again?" The Volt was joined in the winner’s circle by the Corvette, Silverado and Avalanche. Brand nationality doesn’t seem to have a strong effect on owner satisfaction: The 44 top-rated models include 16 American, 14 Asian, and 14 European vehicles.
From the Wall Street Journal: The U.S. auto industry is poised to report November sales cruised to another four-year high, a sign that the domestic market has returned to health even while Europe and Asia sales falter. Industry executives interviewed ahead of this week's Los Angeles Auto Show said November results, due out next week, should continue the year's big gains. Some analysts estimate November sales could hit an annualized selling pace of 15.2 million cars and light trucks-the strongest single monthly showing since 2008. Next year, U.S. sales are projected to reach between 14.5 million and just over 15 million cars and light trucks, a third consecutive year of growth. U.S. sales this year are projected to hit 14.4 million vehicles. Auto executives are watching the debate over federal taxes and spending, and are concerned about the risks should President Obama and Congress fail to reach a resolution. But for now, they say more U.S. consumers are willing to buy.
Reid Bigland, Chrysler Group LLC's Dodge brand chief, says, "If you look at the automotive industry and you benchmark November, it's kind of like what fiscal cliff?" The biggest factor in the optimism for 2013 U.S. auto sales is the advanced age of so many of the 245 million cars and light trucks now on the road. "The U.S. is a rolling junkyard," says Jim O'Sullivan, president of Mazda Motor Corp.'s North American unit. The average car on the road in the U.S. is now a record 11 years old, industry executives say and about 20% are 16 years old. When customers wheel their rattletraps into showrooms, they're also finding credit is relatively cheap and available. "Banks that weren't financing…are financing now," Mr. O'Sullivan says.
A third engine for U.S. auto demand is a volley of new cars and trucks, many on display Wednesday at the convention center here, that offer customers significant advances in fuel efficiency, safety and entertainment technology compared with cars made four or five years ago, let alone 11 years ago. The owner of an 11-year-old, six cylinder Ford Explorer that averages about 15 miles on a gallon of gasoline could replace it with a 2013 Explorer that gets up to 23 mpg with a four-cylinder, turbocharged "EcoBoost" model and use the difference to help fund a loan, say car makers. "We are seeing wholesale refreshes of significant segments. That is unprecedented," says Jim Farley, Ford's global sales and marketing chief.
Still, auto executives here say the uncertainty over future tax rates and federal spending must be resolved soon. "I don't think many people will forgive the politicians if just through stalemate, they don't find a more bipartisan way forward," said Jonathan Browning, head of Volkswagen AG's U.S. operations. Mr. Browning is more cautious than some of his rivals about near term U.S. industry growth. "I still describe it as a choppy growth," he says. Industry executives here say that even if the worst case scenarios for the economy come to pass and the nation slips back into recession, they are better prepared than in the past.
Annual U.S. sales could fall to as few as 10 million to 11 million vehicles and GM and most other auto makers could still break even, said Mark Reuss, head of General Motors's North American operations, "The industry is in a completely different place in its ability to adapt to different [sales] levels and make money," said Mr. Reuss.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
November 27, 2012 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
The UAW Community Services committee still has Adopt-A-Child names available. Co-chairs Wanda Richard (1st shift) and Tina Hayes (2ndshift) will be in the cafeteria at breaks and lunch with the remaining names until they are gone.
The annual Pre-Trim bake sale will be Monday, Dec. 10. The sale will begin at first break on both shifts and continue until all items are sold. It will be held at the team center at column T-49. Proceeds will go to support the Adopt-A-Child program. Anyone wishing to donate bakery items can drop them off at the team center.
There will be a Red Cross Blood Drive Friday, Dec. 14 from 11:30 am to 7:30 pm in the tour holding room. Sign up will next Wednesday, Dec. 5 in the cafeteria at breaks and lunch on both 1st and 2ndshift.
This is the last day to submit an entry for the VAP (vehicle advocate program) overnight drive that will run from Dec. 5 through Dec. 31. Forms are available in the cafeteria next to the drop box. You have 2 days to buy your tickets for the 2 weekends and the Christmas shutdown week and support Make-A-Wish. Wanda and Tina will be selling these tickets and you can also get them at the benefits office and personnel.
There will be a GM employees and family event this Sunday, Dec. 2 at Shoe Carnival from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm. Just show your employee ID and get an additional 30% off, including sale prices, at the O’Fallon (2209 Highway K) and St. Charles (3867 Mexico Rd, Cave Springs Crossing) stores.
Pop quiz: Which vehicle has the most torque coming from its powertrain: The The Porsche 911′s flat-six engine; The 5.0-liter V8 in the Ford F150 pickup; The Ferrari 458 Italia or the Chevy Spark EV micro car? The Porsche? A mere 325 lb. ft. F150? Better at 380. Ferrari, right? A hefty 398, but the winner is….the Spark, which generates an astounding 400 lb. ft. of torque, and being an electric vehicle, gives it all to you immediately. And with a price less than $25,000!
From Automotive News: With a re-engineered light-duty pickup now in dealerships this fall, the Ram brand team is turning its attention to two new commercial vans. The vans will be reskinned versions of European Fiat vans and are scheduled to arrive in 2013. They will be assembled in Mexico. Chrysler Group killed the Dakota in 2011, but don't be surprised if Ram re-enters the small-pickup market in the next few years with a new offering it can sell in both North and South America. Brand chief Fred Diaz said Chrysler continues to consider a "lifestyle truck" in the five-year product plan it presented in November 2009.
Small commercial van: Ram is putting a new nose and badge on the European version of the Fiat Doblo in its Saltillo, Mexico, assembly plant to give the brand a competitor to the Ford Transit Connect. It will appear for the 2014 model year. The name has not been revealed.
Rampage: No decision has been made on whether Chrysler will build a compact pickup to compete with the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma, Diaz said. Large commercial van: Fiat also is sending its full-sized front-wheel-drive European commercial van, the Ducato, to North America where it will get a new nose, nameplate and Ram badge. The Ducato will compete with such vans as the new full-sized Ford Transit van, or T series; the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter; and the Chevrolet Express. The 2014 model will be assembled in Saltillo.
From Wards Auto: Superstorm Sandy, which analysts estimate cost the U.S. auto industry 30,000-60,000 light-vehicle sales in October, likely will have a positive effect on November deliveries, according to a WardsAutoforecast. The outlook calls for auto makers to sell 1.12 million LVs this month, equating to a 15.2 million-unit seasonally adjusted annual rate, the highest since February 2008.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
The UAW Community Services committee still has Adopt-A-Child names available. Co-chairs Wanda Richard (1st shift) and Tina Hayes (2ndshift) will be in the cafeteria at breaks and lunch with the remaining names until they are gone.
The annual Pre-Trim bake sale will be Monday, Dec. 10. The sale will begin at first break on both shifts and continue until all items are sold. It will be held at the team center at column T-49. Proceeds will go to support the Adopt-A-Child program. Anyone wishing to donate bakery items can drop them off at the team center.
There will be a Red Cross Blood Drive Friday, Dec. 14 from 11:30 am to 7:30 pm in the tour holding room. Sign up will next Wednesday, Dec. 5 in the cafeteria at breaks and lunch on both 1st and 2ndshift.
This is the last day to submit an entry for the VAP (vehicle advocate program) overnight drive that will run from Dec. 5 through Dec. 31. Forms are available in the cafeteria next to the drop box. You have 2 days to buy your tickets for the 2 weekends and the Christmas shutdown week and support Make-A-Wish. Wanda and Tina will be selling these tickets and you can also get them at the benefits office and personnel.
There will be a GM employees and family event this Sunday, Dec. 2 at Shoe Carnival from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm. Just show your employee ID and get an additional 30% off, including sale prices, at the O’Fallon (2209 Highway K) and St. Charles (3867 Mexico Rd, Cave Springs Crossing) stores.
Pop quiz: Which vehicle has the most torque coming from its powertrain: The The Porsche 911′s flat-six engine; The 5.0-liter V8 in the Ford F150 pickup; The Ferrari 458 Italia or the Chevy Spark EV micro car? The Porsche? A mere 325 lb. ft. F150? Better at 380. Ferrari, right? A hefty 398, but the winner is….the Spark, which generates an astounding 400 lb. ft. of torque, and being an electric vehicle, gives it all to you immediately. And with a price less than $25,000!
From Automotive News: With a re-engineered light-duty pickup now in dealerships this fall, the Ram brand team is turning its attention to two new commercial vans. The vans will be reskinned versions of European Fiat vans and are scheduled to arrive in 2013. They will be assembled in Mexico. Chrysler Group killed the Dakota in 2011, but don't be surprised if Ram re-enters the small-pickup market in the next few years with a new offering it can sell in both North and South America. Brand chief Fred Diaz said Chrysler continues to consider a "lifestyle truck" in the five-year product plan it presented in November 2009.
Small commercial van: Ram is putting a new nose and badge on the European version of the Fiat Doblo in its Saltillo, Mexico, assembly plant to give the brand a competitor to the Ford Transit Connect. It will appear for the 2014 model year. The name has not been revealed.
Rampage: No decision has been made on whether Chrysler will build a compact pickup to compete with the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma, Diaz said. Large commercial van: Fiat also is sending its full-sized front-wheel-drive European commercial van, the Ducato, to North America where it will get a new nose, nameplate and Ram badge. The Ducato will compete with such vans as the new full-sized Ford Transit van, or T series; the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter; and the Chevrolet Express. The 2014 model will be assembled in Saltillo.
From Wards Auto: Superstorm Sandy, which analysts estimate cost the U.S. auto industry 30,000-60,000 light-vehicle sales in October, likely will have a positive effect on November deliveries, according to a WardsAutoforecast. The outlook calls for auto makers to sell 1.12 million LVs this month, equating to a 15.2 million-unit seasonally adjusted annual rate, the highest since February 2008.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
State of the Union November 20, 2012
November 20, 2012 online at www.uawlocal2250.com
From Chairman Mike Bullock: I want to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving with your families and friends. We certainly have a lot to be thankful for here as the body shop for the Colorado/Canyon continues to go up and President Obama prepares for a second term. I would like to encourage everyone to check out the UAW Local 2250 facebook page. Finally, I want you to join in solidarity with Wal-Mart workers nationwide by boycotting Wal-Mart on Black Friday. These workers are counting on our support as they take a stand against the abuses they have been subjected to with low wages, erratic work schedules and meager benefits (see message from UAW International below).
The Civil Rights Committee is having a meeting for all members on Monday, Nov. 26 between the shifts at 3 pm at the Union Hall.
The Chaplaincy Committee would like to wish everyone a Blessed, Safe and Happy Thanksgiving this year.
As you head out to do your Christmas shopping this weekend, remember to make an effort to buy Union and American. There are numerous websites dedicated to informing the patriotic shopper what items are Union-made and American-made. Just google either term for guidance. The UAW website also has information about which products are UAW made. You might be surprised at what you find on the list – Folgers coffee or Planters peanuts anyone?
From the International Union UAW: Workers at Walmart are planning mass actions around the country on Black Friday to stand up to their employer and live better, forcing the company to recognize their organization and collaborate with them on important issues from wages to scheduling to healthcare. As the largest private sector employer in the United States, Walmart has enormous power to set the trends not just for the retail and service industries, but for the economy as a whole. Wages and working conditions set at Walmart have a ripple-effect throughout all jobs: low wages, limited access to health care and no retirement security. While the Walton family has the same wealth as the bottom 42 percent of American families combined, they pay Walmart associates an average of $8.81 an hour. UAW brothers and sisters , Walmart workers need your help! This will be the first direct action many Walmart workers take, and they will need support in their communities and around the country to back them up. So let’s gear up and support Walmart workers across this country by joining with them in actions on Black Friday. This is a tough fight, but if we all work together in solidarity and we use creative, nonviolent actions to support the workers' fight, Walmart will be persuaded to change the way it treats its workers.
From Wards Auto (by Drew Winter): I recently blogged about some of the auto industry’s biggest boondoggles of the last 25 years and asked readers to contribute their thoughts. My email bulged with suggestions, especially related to the Detroit Three.
Many mentioned General Motors’ misguided attempt to reinvent itself with Saturn and ill-advised investments in Fiatand Saab. Plus, there were vehicles such as the infamous Pontiac Aztek and the entire Hummer brand. Others mentioned questionable adventures at Ford, such as its purchase of Jaguar and Volvo, and numerous bad cars going back to the 1970s including the Pinto subcompact and Mustang II.
Readers also pointed to head scratchers at Chryslersuch as the TC by Maserati, a gussied up K-car with a Maserati badge; the odd-looking Plymouth Prowler; and the disastrous “partnership” with Daimlerthat ended in divorce.
But to ferret out the absolute worst mistakes Detroit has made in recent history, I look to professional automotive observer and author Maryann Keller. She has been enormously influential since the early 1980s. After a 28-year career as one of Wall Street’s top auto analysts she now runs her own company, Maryann Keller & Associates. She is as tough and insightful as ever. During a recent speech to the Society of Auto Analysts, Keller unleashes her own list of auto industry blunders, and her choices make most of the items above look like minor glitches.
Detroit auto makers wasted at least $50 billion during the past two decades in failed efforts to impress Wall Street and raise their stock prices, she says. That incredible figure includes stock buybacks, excessive dividends and diversification efforts, all of which could have been spent making better products. GM alone doled out $20 billion from 1986 to 2000 on stock buybacks and actually borrowed money it did not have to pay dividends from 2005 to 2008.
Ford kissed off half the cash it had on hand in 2000 creating a special dividend of $10 per share, Keller says. GM and Ford also wasted billions buying rental-car companies that hid excess production capacity and threw away billions more for e-commerce efforts that looked sexy during the Internet bubble economy but ultimately yielded zip in revenue and profits. Also on her list are the names of financial-services companies, vehicle retailers, recyclers, junkyards and mortgage companies. All were purchased in an effort to add glamour and growth to auto maker bottom lines, but they did neither.
Of course, these strategies did not look quite so boneheaded at the time. In the late 1990s, auto companies were considered old-fashioned. No matter how many vehicles they sold and how much cash they raked in, their stock prices looked weak compared with the soaring value of technology and Internet stocks. So auto makers tried to redefine themselves as something other than companies that built and sold cars and trucks.
And this was the Detroit Three’s biggest mistake ever: They tried to be something other than vehicle manufacturing companies. When they focused on being banks and mortgage lenders and impressing Wall Street, they took their eye off the ball of their core business. Design faltered, quality slipped and market share skidded. Disaster ensued. Ford was first to see the error of its ways and avoided bankruptcy. GM and Chryslerwere not so lucky.
But as Keller points out, “Wall Street didn’t make these decisions; the CEOs did.” I currently am testing vehicles for Ward’s 10 Best Engines and as a judge for the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. Detroit’s new products such as the Cadillac ATS, Ford Fusion and Dodge Dart are terrific. Detroit auto makers clearly have their eye back on the ball. It shows in vehicle sales numbers, on their bottom line and their stock price. Let’s hope they never again try to be something they are not.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
From Chairman Mike Bullock: I want to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving with your families and friends. We certainly have a lot to be thankful for here as the body shop for the Colorado/Canyon continues to go up and President Obama prepares for a second term. I would like to encourage everyone to check out the UAW Local 2250 facebook page. Finally, I want you to join in solidarity with Wal-Mart workers nationwide by boycotting Wal-Mart on Black Friday. These workers are counting on our support as they take a stand against the abuses they have been subjected to with low wages, erratic work schedules and meager benefits (see message from UAW International below).
The Civil Rights Committee is having a meeting for all members on Monday, Nov. 26 between the shifts at 3 pm at the Union Hall.
The Chaplaincy Committee would like to wish everyone a Blessed, Safe and Happy Thanksgiving this year.
As you head out to do your Christmas shopping this weekend, remember to make an effort to buy Union and American. There are numerous websites dedicated to informing the patriotic shopper what items are Union-made and American-made. Just google either term for guidance. The UAW website also has information about which products are UAW made. You might be surprised at what you find on the list – Folgers coffee or Planters peanuts anyone?
From the International Union UAW: Workers at Walmart are planning mass actions around the country on Black Friday to stand up to their employer and live better, forcing the company to recognize their organization and collaborate with them on important issues from wages to scheduling to healthcare. As the largest private sector employer in the United States, Walmart has enormous power to set the trends not just for the retail and service industries, but for the economy as a whole. Wages and working conditions set at Walmart have a ripple-effect throughout all jobs: low wages, limited access to health care and no retirement security. While the Walton family has the same wealth as the bottom 42 percent of American families combined, they pay Walmart associates an average of $8.81 an hour. UAW brothers and sisters , Walmart workers need your help! This will be the first direct action many Walmart workers take, and they will need support in their communities and around the country to back them up. So let’s gear up and support Walmart workers across this country by joining with them in actions on Black Friday. This is a tough fight, but if we all work together in solidarity and we use creative, nonviolent actions to support the workers' fight, Walmart will be persuaded to change the way it treats its workers.
From Wards Auto (by Drew Winter): I recently blogged about some of the auto industry’s biggest boondoggles of the last 25 years and asked readers to contribute their thoughts. My email bulged with suggestions, especially related to the Detroit Three.
Many mentioned General Motors’ misguided attempt to reinvent itself with Saturn and ill-advised investments in Fiatand Saab. Plus, there were vehicles such as the infamous Pontiac Aztek and the entire Hummer brand. Others mentioned questionable adventures at Ford, such as its purchase of Jaguar and Volvo, and numerous bad cars going back to the 1970s including the Pinto subcompact and Mustang II.
Readers also pointed to head scratchers at Chryslersuch as the TC by Maserati, a gussied up K-car with a Maserati badge; the odd-looking Plymouth Prowler; and the disastrous “partnership” with Daimlerthat ended in divorce.
But to ferret out the absolute worst mistakes Detroit has made in recent history, I look to professional automotive observer and author Maryann Keller. She has been enormously influential since the early 1980s. After a 28-year career as one of Wall Street’s top auto analysts she now runs her own company, Maryann Keller & Associates. She is as tough and insightful as ever. During a recent speech to the Society of Auto Analysts, Keller unleashes her own list of auto industry blunders, and her choices make most of the items above look like minor glitches.
Detroit auto makers wasted at least $50 billion during the past two decades in failed efforts to impress Wall Street and raise their stock prices, she says. That incredible figure includes stock buybacks, excessive dividends and diversification efforts, all of which could have been spent making better products. GM alone doled out $20 billion from 1986 to 2000 on stock buybacks and actually borrowed money it did not have to pay dividends from 2005 to 2008.
Ford kissed off half the cash it had on hand in 2000 creating a special dividend of $10 per share, Keller says. GM and Ford also wasted billions buying rental-car companies that hid excess production capacity and threw away billions more for e-commerce efforts that looked sexy during the Internet bubble economy but ultimately yielded zip in revenue and profits. Also on her list are the names of financial-services companies, vehicle retailers, recyclers, junkyards and mortgage companies. All were purchased in an effort to add glamour and growth to auto maker bottom lines, but they did neither.
Of course, these strategies did not look quite so boneheaded at the time. In the late 1990s, auto companies were considered old-fashioned. No matter how many vehicles they sold and how much cash they raked in, their stock prices looked weak compared with the soaring value of technology and Internet stocks. So auto makers tried to redefine themselves as something other than companies that built and sold cars and trucks.
And this was the Detroit Three’s biggest mistake ever: They tried to be something other than vehicle manufacturing companies. When they focused on being banks and mortgage lenders and impressing Wall Street, they took their eye off the ball of their core business. Design faltered, quality slipped and market share skidded. Disaster ensued. Ford was first to see the error of its ways and avoided bankruptcy. GM and Chryslerwere not so lucky.
But as Keller points out, “Wall Street didn’t make these decisions; the CEOs did.” I currently am testing vehicles for Ward’s 10 Best Engines and as a judge for the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. Detroit’s new products such as the Cadillac ATS, Ford Fusion and Dodge Dart are terrific. Detroit auto makers clearly have their eye back on the ball. It shows in vehicle sales numbers, on their bottom line and their stock price. Let’s hope they never again try to be something they are not.
Tom Brune
UAW/GM Communications Coordinator
Wentzville Assembly
636-327-2119
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