Stellantis is reportedly contemplating 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 these considerations on Wednesday. However, the company has not yet provided formal written notice of closure as required by the collective agreement.
Under the terms of the agreement, Stellantis is obligated to give the union at least one year’s notice in case of closure or sale. Payne mentioned that Stellantis plans to engage in discussions with another company regarding the possible sale of the plant.
Expressing deep disappointment, Payne described the situation as distressing for the union, especially for the dedicated workers at the plant. Stellantis, in a statement, indicated that they are gearing up for collective bargaining but have no announcements to make currently, emphasizing their focus on securing a sustainable manufacturing solution for Brampton Assembly.
The plant was initially slated for retooling for Jeep Compass production, which commenced in January 2024 but was halted in February 2025. Subsequently, in October 2025, the company informed the union about relocating Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S., leading to the indefinite idling of the plant.
Unifor emphasized the irreplaceability of the high-paying union jobs established over many years in the auto sector. Payne affirmed that the union will address this issue during upcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis, underscoring the unacceptability of the situation for both the union and its members.
Moreover, the union will continue advocating for a government policy safeguarding Canada’s auto manufacturing industry, citing the Brampton Assembly plant’s historical significance as an economic cornerstone and job provider in the region.
As Unifor engages in labor negotiations with automakers, including General Motors and Stellantis, Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, reassured that the union will persist in fighting to preserve jobs at the Brampton plant. Beato emphasized the crucial nature of these jobs and expressed optimism about finding opportunities to restore vehicle production at the bargaining table.
Unifor Local 1285, representing approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant, clarified that workers are currently receiving income security during the plant’s idle period, replacing 70% of their income.
City officials, including Brampton mayor Patrick Brown’s spokesperson, Shawn Bubel, expressed solidarity with Unifor and the plant workers, highlighting efforts to safeguard automotive production at the site. Similarly, the federal government through Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada is actively collaborating with stakeholders to protect jobs and ensure continued investment in Canada.
The ongoing developments underscore the challenges facing the Brampton Assembly Plant and the collective efforts to navigate the situation towards a positive outcome for the community and workers involved.