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Canada’s first large-scale electric vehicle battery cell plant now also has its first collective bargaining agreement after 88 per cent of workers voted in favour of ratifying the contract Sunday.

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The one-year agreement includes a five-per-cent wage increase and certifies Unifor and Local 444 as the exclusive bargaining agent for employees at the facility. The contract also achieved gains on wage progression, pensions, short- and long-term disability programs and workplace health and safety, among other benefits.

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“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 in a statement.

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“The work of our bargaining committee at NextStar Energy ensures that as the electric vehicle sector grows, good union jobs grow with it.”

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There are currently 450 hourly workers at the Windsor factory, with that number expected to rise to 750 by year’s end at the plant. In total, NextStar is currently employing about 900 people.

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Mass production of battery cells is expected to begin later this year, joining the manufacturing of the battery modules that started in 2024.

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“We are proud of our leadership role at NextStar Energy in proactively working with Unifor to create a collective agreement that reflects our ongoing commitment to our employees and our belief in the power of collaboration,” said NextStar Energy CEO Danies Lee in a statement.

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“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to labour stability and operational flexibility and will continue to offer terms that are both fair and competitive for employees. This marks a new chapter for NextStar and we remain committed to supporting and empowering our growing workforce.”

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The one-year term of the agreement positions workers at NextStar Energy to return to the bargaining table in 2026. It aligns the contract’s expiration date with the next round of Unifor negotiations with the Detroit Three automakers.

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“This is a proud day for our union and for every worker who believed that organizing and standing together would make a difference,” said Unifor Local 444 president James Stewart.

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“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.”