A major labor union disclosed that Stellantis is contemplating the potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant. Unifor’s national president Lana Payne stated that the union received verbal information from Stellantis about this matter earlier in the week, although the company has not furnished the union with written notice of closure as mandated by their agreement.
Under the collective agreement terms, Stellantis is obligated to provide at least a year’s notice to the union in the event of closure or sale. Payne mentioned that Stellantis expressed intentions to engage in talks with another entity regarding a possible sale of the plant, leaving the union deeply disheartened by the news.
Stellantis released a statement emphasizing their focus on seeking a sustainable manufacturing solution for Brampton Assembly as they gear up for collective bargaining discussions. Payne revealed that the plant was initially scheduled to undergo retooling for Jeep Compass production, which commenced in January 2024 but was halted in February 2025. Subsequently, in October 2025, Stellantis informed the union of plans to transfer the Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S., resulting in the plant’s uncertain future.
Unifor is set to address this issue during forthcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis, expressing firm opposition to the adverse developments. Payne stressed the significance of protecting high-paying union jobs forged through decades of auto sector agreements. The union is advocating for government intervention to safeguard Canada’s auto manufacturing sector amid the challenges facing Brampton Assembly.
Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s commitment to safeguarding jobs at the Brampton plant, stressing the importance of preserving these vital employment opportunities. Unifor Local 1285 represents approximately 2,200 members at the plant, who are currently receiving income security during the idle period, covering 70% of their earnings.
The city of Brampton, alongside federal and provincial authorities, is actively engaged in efforts to support the workers and sustain automotive production at the Brampton plant. The government is collaborating with Stellantis, Unifor, and the province of Ontario to secure production, protect jobs, and foster long-term investments in Canada’s automotive industry.