Stellantis is reportedly considering the potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant, according to a national union. Unifor’s national president Lana Payne stated that the union was informed by Stellantis about this possibility earlier in the week, although no formal written notice has been provided as required by the collective agreement.
Under the terms of the agreement, the company is obligated to give the union at least one year’s notice before any closure or sale of the plant. Stellantis has expressed its intention to engage in discussions with another company regarding the potential sale of the facility, which has left the union feeling dismayed and disheartened.
In response to inquiries, Stellantis released a statement emphasizing their focus on seeking a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly facility. Payne mentioned that the plant was initially scheduled for retooling to produce Jeep Compass vehicles, but this process was halted in February 2025. Subsequently, the company revealed plans to relocate Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S., resulting in the indefinite shutdown of the plant.
Unifor expressed strong opposition to the potential closure, highlighting the significance of the high-paying union jobs established over many years in the automotive sector. Payne affirmed that the union will address this issue during upcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis, stressing that the current situation is unacceptable to both the union and its members.
Amid ongoing negotiations with the Detroit Three automakers, including General Motors, Unifor is set to engage with Stellantis as their contract covering facilities in Brampton, Windsor, and Etobicoke nears expiration. Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, reiterated the union’s commitment to safeguarding jobs at the Brampton plant and expressed optimism about finding solutions to preserve vehicle production in the region.
Unifor Local 1285, representing approximately 2,200 workers at the Brampton plant, continues to advocate for job protection and the restoration of production activities. While the plant remains inactive, employees are receiving income support equivalent to 70% of their wages, according to the union.
Local authorities, including Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, have voiced their support for the workers and their efforts to maintain automotive manufacturing in Brampton. The federal government is actively involved in discussions with stakeholders to secure production, safeguard jobs, and encourage long-term investments in the Canadian automotive industry.