Stellantis offers buyouts; employees find them insufficient

Stellantis is planning to reduce its workforce by offering voluntary buyouts to employees. This decision affects workers at facilities in Detroit, Ohio, and Illinois. Many employees have until May 8 to decide whether to accept the buyout. Andy Coutts, an employee at the Mopar warehouse in Center Line, is rejecting the offer. He believes the compensation is not adequate. Coutts points out that it would be difficult to find another job with similar pay and benefits. He plans to continue working and focus on doing his job well. Stellantis says this move comes after a tough year in 2024. A company representative stated they are looking to improve efficiency and stay competitive in a changing market. The United Auto Workers (UAW) union supports the buyouts and emphasizes that options are available for those ready to retire, as well as for those who want to leave the company. Auto analyst Marick Masters noted that if not enough employees accept the buyout, layoffs could follow. Coutts has his own plans for the future. He mentioned, "I can’t control what goes on with the economy; all I can do is put my best foot forward." The situation continues to unfold as employees consider their options.