Unifor, the national union representing former workers at London's shuttered Accuride plant, has secured a $4.7-million pension settlement and is signaling further financial victories ahead for the more than 300 displaced employees.
Union Fights for Full Pension Rights
Luis Domingues, Unifor's London and area director, described the settlement as an excellent victory. The company initially proposed a $2.8-million payout, but the union challenged the offer in court, citing contract language that entitled members to maximum pension amounts. The lawsuit was settled in April.
More Funds Expected
The union continues to pursue enhancements to severance payments, a supplementary unemployment benefits fund, and unpaid vacation money. Domingues estimates these additional settlements could exceed $500,000. He expressed confidence that more money will be available for members.
Distribution of Funds
Workers will share $4.1 million of the settlement after $600,000 is deducted for legal fees. The amount each worker receives will be calculated by court-appointed actuaries, with seniority playing a key role. Domingues expects former workers to know their individual payouts by year's end.
The settlement covers all retirees and spouses of deceased former workers. The actuary is determining the exact number of eligible individuals, estimated between 300 and 400, all part of the defined benefit pension plan.
Plant Closure and Background
Accuride, located on Firestone Boulevard in east London, closed in early 2025, laying off about 200 workers. The plant had operated in London since 1968, manufacturing steel wheels for heavy- and medium-duty commercial trucks. In 2016, Accuride was acquired by Crestview Partners, a New York-based private equity firm.
Domingues called the financial win the essence of union work, emphasizing the positive impact on families. Former workers and their families will be well compensated, he said.
