UAW Ratifies Deal at Volkswagen Chattanooga Plant

After a decade of organizing, the union reaches agreement with automaker.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has ratified a new contract with Volkswagen's Chattanooga, Tennessee plant. The deal comes after years of organizing efforts by the union to gain a foothold at the foreign-owned auto factory.

Why it matters

The UAW's success in Chattanooga represents a significant victory for the union, which has struggled to organize workers at foreign-owned auto plants in the American South. The contract is expected to improve wages and benefits for Volkswagen employees in the region.

The details

The new contract, described as the "last, best and final" offer, includes improved wages and benefits for UAW members at the Chattanooga plant. The agreement comes after a decade of organizing efforts by the union to gain representation at the facility.

  • The UAW has been working to organize the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga for over a decade.
  • The new contract was ratified by UAW members on February 20, 2026.

The players

Shawn Fain

President of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union.

Volkswagen

The German automaker that operates the Chattanooga, Tennessee plant where the UAW has now gained a foothold.

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What’s next

The new contract is expected to set the stage for improved wages and benefits for Volkswagen employees in Chattanooga.

The takeaway

The UAW's success in Chattanooga represents a significant victory for the union, which has struggled to organize workers at foreign-owned auto plants in the American South. This deal could pave the way for further union organizing efforts in the region.