GREER -- The United Auto Workers union has met with BMW Manufacturing employees this week to gauge their interest in joining the trade union.

UAW regional director Gary Casteel says he does not know yet what the issues are for workers at the Greer plant.

Casteel said employees interested in forming unions are often seeking better wages, benefits and treatment by their employer.

BMW spokeswoman Bunny Richardson said she is not surprised that the UAW is looking at the Greer assembly plant.

Richardson said she hopes BMW employees feel they are treated with respect and do not need a third party to represent their interests.

The company said in a statement that it would "vigorously oppose" any union effort to organize workers.

The UAW passed out flyers and held meetings at a Greenville hotel earlier this week to gauge employee interest.

Some workers expressed opposition, saying employees are content and satisfied with pay and benefits. BMW Manufacturing has about 3,700 production employees.

The UAW has about 710,000 active members.

United Auto Workers Web site
BMW Manufacturing Web site