Stellantis, the automaker, has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Roshel, a Canadian armored vehicle manufacturer, regarding a potential sale of its dormant Brampton, Ontario, assembly plant. The Canadian workers’ union at Stellantis has paused contract negotiations due to a deadlock concerning the future of the Brampton facility.
Trevor Longley, Stellantis Canada’s Chairman, President, and CEO, stated that the company explored various options for the plant, which has been inactive since 2023. Longley emphasized that Stellantis views Roshel as a viable avenue to revive sustainable operations at the Brampton Assembly plant, maintaining its strategic importance in Canada’s advanced manufacturing sector.
Unifor, the union, is currently deliberating on the next course of action and intends to share more information in the coming days. President of Unifor Local 1285, Vito Beato, expressed dissatisfaction with third-party involvement in bargaining discussions and the plant’s future.
The ongoing collective agreement between Stellantis and the union is scheduled to expire on September 20 at 11:59 p.m. Negotiations commenced on September 1 in Toronto following Unifor’s prior successful bargaining with Ford Motor Co. and General Motors in Canada.
The union set a deadline of September 11 to reach a new agreement with Stellantis, but talks collapsed after ten days due to the company’s persistent proposal to close and sell the Brampton facility. Unifor voiced concerns that such actions could jeopardize members’ wages, pensions, benefits, and have adverse effects on Canada’s industrial sector.
Roshel’s CEO, Roman Shimonov, assured that the laid-off Brampton workers would receive priority consideration for jobs at the plant. Roshel envisions establishing a Canadian Centre of Excellence for Defence Manufacturing in Brampton, alongside its existing automotive production. Shimonov outlined plans to offer job opportunities through government programs and enhance Canada’s capabilities, including producing ballistic steel.
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown expressed disappointment over the potential sale, highlighting the uncertainty faced by workers for nearly three years. He criticized Stellantis for what he deemed broken commitments and pledged to hold the company accountable for its actions.
The union remains concerned about the future of jobs at the Windsor assembly plant and Etobicoke casting plant. Unifor emphasized that a suitable resolution for Brampton workers is essential for any tentative settlement. Stellantis refrained from further comments to respect the ongoing bargaining process.
Despite a pause in negotiations, Unifor clarified that it is not indefinite, as discussions continue on finding solutions to various priorities, including the fate of the Brampton plant. The union is exploring options and planning next steps in collaboration with the company.