Stellantis is seriously considering the potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant, according to a national union. Unifor’s national president, Lana Payne, revealed that the union received information from Stellantis this week about the possible plans. However, Stellantis has not formally notified the union of the plant’s closure as required under their collective agreement.
Under the collective agreement terms, Stellantis is obligated to provide the union with at least one year’s notice for any closure or sale. Payne mentioned that the company has expressed interest in engaging in discussions with another entity regarding the potential sale of the plant.
Expressing disappointment, Payne stated, “This news is a severe blow to our union and our dedicated members who have devoted their efforts to this plant.” Stellantis responded on Friday by stating that they are gearing up for collective bargaining discussions and currently have no official announcements. They emphasized their focus on seeking a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly.
Payne revealed that the plant was initially set to undergo retooling for Jeep Compass production, a process that commenced in January 2024 but was halted in February 2025. In October 2025, the company informed the union that the production of Jeep Compass scheduled for Brampton would be relocated to the United States, leading to a temporary shutdown of the plant.
Unifor plans to address this issue during upcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis, with Payne stressing, “Our union and members find none of these developments acceptable. The workers in Brampton and across the country deserve better.”
Additionally, Unifor will continue its advocacy efforts for governmental policies to safeguard Canada’s auto manufacturing sector. Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s commitment to fighting to safeguard jobs at the Brampton plant, emphasizing that giving up on workers is not an option.
Unifor Local 1285 represents approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant. While the plant remains inactive, workers are receiving “income security” equivalent to 70% of their wages, as confirmed by the union.
The City of Brampton pledged its support for Unifor and the plant workers, with Mayor Patrick Brown’s spokesperson emphasizing the city’s efforts to protect automotive production at the site. Meanwhile, the federal government, through Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada, is actively engaging with stakeholders to secure production, protect jobs, and ensure long-term investment in Canada.