DETROIT — A two-week strike at auto- parts maker American Axle and Manufacturing Holdings could last much longer, largely because the company is profitable yet wants concessions, say some labor experts and workers on the picket lines.
As the strike dragged on Monday, it caused a parts shortage that crippled General Motors’ ability to make pickup trucks, big sport utility vehicles and vans. The company says it has shut down part or all of 28 plants, affecting 37,000 hourly workers.
American Axle wants concessions like those that the United Auto Workers gave to GM, Ford, Chrysler and parts makers Delphi and Dana.
American Axle says its manufacturing workers can make up to $73.48 per hour in wages and benefits, three times the rate at its U.S. competitors.
