Bo Knows UAW Strikes, And How To Handle Logistics Too.

GM's global purchasing guru Bo Andersson just dropped the following e-mail out to GM suppliers about what they should be doing with the General in strike mode here in the US. Nothing breathtakingly important in here except it should be noted if you're wondering why suppliers should continue shipments into the Moraine, Ohio and Canadian plants it's because neither have UAW workers. Moraine's workers are IUE-CWA union members and Canadians of course fall under the strong fist of Buzz Hargrove and his merry band of Canadian Auto Workers. Also, it's interesting that they'll be continuing both outbound and inbound shipments today — we're wondering what any Teamster truckers will end up doing if confronted with a strike line upheld by another union. It could be interesting. Really, it probably won't be and we're stretching here, but whatevs, we're trying to make this stuff at least sound interesting. Anyway, full e-mail below the jump.

Date: Sept. 24, 2007

Subject: Work Stoppage

GM Suppliers:

We were informed today by UAW leadership that they are exercising their right to strike at all UAW-represented GM locations.

At this time, we don't have a timetable related to this action. We are disappointed that the discussions have not resulted in a new agreement; however, we remain hopeful that the parties will continue negotiations and reach an agreement as soon as possible.

For the foreseeable future, we expect you to operate under the terms and conditions spelled out in the supplier agreements between your company and General Motors. We will continue to monitor the situation and will communicate updates about our business needs to you through existing channels.

All normal supplier logistics routes (inbound and outbound) will continue to run as scheduled today. Decisions about future shipments will be made on a day by day basis. If you have any questions, call your normal plant contact. Suppliers should continue to ship normal schedule to Moraine Assembly and all plants located in Canada and Mexico.

I want to assure you that the company's primary focus is working with the UAW leadership to resolve the outstanding issues and achieve an agreement.

Bo I. Andersson

Group Vice President

Global Purchasing and Supply Chain