Honda to UAW: Back off

John Mendel: Cautioned that, despite these tactics from “the kinder, gentler UAW,” import-brand dealers should not engage in counterproductive tactics.

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Mark Rechtin
Automotive News
February 7, 2011 - 6:00 pm ET
SAN FRANCISCO -- Eyeing last year’s picketing of Toyota dealerships by UAW members, John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president, voiced his opposition to any UAW threats to Honda’s non-union status.

“The union announced that they’re going to target the operations of international automakers this year,” Mendel said in a speech to the American International Automobile Dealers Association.

“The issue of union representation is one for our associates to decide, not us,” Mendel said. “Having said that, we do not believe that an outside party will improve upon [our] outstanding track record of success … over the past 30-plus years.”

Mendel cautioned that, despite these tactics from “the kinder, gentler UAW,” import-brand dealers should not engage in counterproductive tactics, but should “remain focused on your relationship with your customers and associates.”

You can reach Mark Rechtin at mrechtin@crain.com. -- Follow Mark on Twitter

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