Elm Plating in Jackson, MI, has had to lay off its third shift - 13 workers - as a result of the ongoing UAW strike at five American Axle plants in Michigan and New York that began on February 26 over a labor agreement. Elm Plating finishes and heat treats bolts and fasteners that are found in many vehicles. The company operates two plants and employs 118 workers.

The American Axle strike has caused GM to shut down all or some of 29 vehicle assembly plants because of parts shortages. The strike is having a far-reaching impact on numerous auto industry suppliers.

American Axle said that the latest proposal aimed at ending the two-month-old strike was "not market competitive" and that it might close striking production plants if the UAW workers do not accept pay and benefit cuts.

American Axle’s website is at www.aam.com. Elm Plating’s website is at www.elmplating.com.