Workers at NextStar Energy have voted 88 per cent in favour of their first collective agreement, marking a milestone for employees at Canada’s first large-scale electric vehicle battery cell manufacturing facility.
The ratification vote took place Sunday in Windsor, Ont., where the Unifor members secured a one-year agreement that includes a five per cent wage increase and establishes Unifor and Local 444 as the exclusive bargaining agent for facility employees.
The agreement covers wages, wage progression, pensions, short and long-term disability programs, and workplace health and safety improvements.
Historic agreement for EV sector
“Bargaining a first collective agreement is never easy, and this one took place in an exceptionally difficult economic and political climate,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “The work of our bargaining committee at NextStar Energy ensures that as the electric vehicle sector grows, good union jobs grow with it.”
The one-year term positions NextStar Energy workers to return to bargaining in 2026, which aligns closely with Unifor’s next round of negotiations with Detroit Three automakers.
Local union celebrates milestone
Local 444 President James Stewart said the ratification represents a significant achievement for organized labour in the emerging EV manufacturing sector.
“This is a proud day for our union and for every worker who believed that organizing and standing together would make a difference,” Stewart said. “By ratifying this collective agreement, our members have secured a voice at work and a seat at the table as this industry takes shape in Canada. We’re ready to build the future—together.”
About the facility and union
NextStar Energy operates Canada’s first large-scale electric vehicle battery cell manufacturing facility. The plant represents a key component of Canada’s strategy to establish itself as a major player in the global electric vehicle supply chain.
Unifor is Canada’s largest private sector union, representing 320,000 workers across major economic sectors. The union was formed in 2013 through the merger of the Canadian Auto Workers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada.
