A major labor union has reported that Stellantis is contemplating the closure and potential sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant. Unifor national president Lana Payne disclosed that the union was informed by Stellantis earlier this week about these deliberations. However, Stellantis has not yet issued a formal written notice of closure to the union, as stipulated in their collective agreement.
According to Payne, Stellantis is obligated to provide a minimum of one year’s notice to the union regarding any closure or sale. The company has expressed its intention to engage in discussions with another entity regarding a potential sale of the plant. Payne expressed deep disappointment at this development, emphasizing the impact on union members who have dedicated their efforts to the plant.
Stellantis responded to these claims by stating that they are gearing up for collective bargaining and currently have no announcements to make. The company emphasized their commitment to finding a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly facility.
Payne highlighted that the plant was initially scheduled for retooling to produce Jeep Compass vehicles, but this process was halted in February 2025. Subsequently, the company informed the union in October 2025 of their decision to transfer Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the United States, leading to the potential indefinite shutdown of the plant.
The union plans to address this matter during upcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis. Payne stressed the importance of preserving high-paying union jobs that have been established over decades in the automotive sector. Additionally, Unifor will continue advocating for government policies to safeguard Canada’s auto manufacturing industry.
Amidst ongoing discussions with automakers, Unifor remains committed to protecting jobs at the Brampton plant. Unifor Local 1285 President Vito Beato affirmed their dedication to fighting for these jobs, emphasizing that closure is not an option. The union represents approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant, and while the plant is inactive, workers are receiving income security equivalent to 70% of their earnings.
The City of Brampton voiced its support for Unifor and plant workers, with Mayor Patrick Brown’s spokesperson emphasizing efforts to preserve automotive production at the site. Similarly, the federal government is actively engaging with Stellantis, Unifor, and the Ontario government to secure production, protect jobs, and ensure long-term investment in Canada.