JASON SETNYK
Unionized workers at Axalta Coating Systems in Cornwall were locked out and began picketing outside the company’s Second Street West facility, as negotiations with management stalled. The company did not respond to a request for comment by press time.
Employees represented by United Steelworkers Local 13292.02 said the dispute centres on wages, benefits, and contract fairness. “The last few contracts have not been really all that fair,” said Marc Watters, a labourer with 22 years at the plant. “We’re just trying to get a fair pay wage to keep up with the cost of living.”
Workers also raised concerns about the removal of bonuses and disparities with non-union staff. “We felt like we’re just kind of shortchanged,” Watters added, calling for improved job security and severance protections.
Craig Villeneuve, a 26-year employee, said the lockout followed weeks of negotiations. “We had a meeting… and they basically told us we were locked out at midnight,” he said. “Here we are today fighting for a fair wage.”
Axalta, an international company headquartered in Philadelphia, reported $5.1 billion USD in 2025 sales and operates globally, including its long-standing Cornwall coatings plant.
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