A major labor union was informed by Stellantis that it is seriously contemplating the potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant, Unifor’s national president Lana Payne disclosed on Friday. While Stellantis has not yet issued a formal written notice of closure as mandated by their collective agreement, Payne stated that the company is obligated to provide a minimum one-year notice to the union in case of closure or sale. Stellantis has expressed its intention to engage in discussions with another entity regarding the potential sale of the plant.
Expressing deep disappointment, Payne emphasized the significant impact this decision would have on the union and its dedicated members who have contributed substantially to the plant. Stellantis, in response, stated that it is gearing up for collective bargaining discussions and currently has no specific announcements to make, emphasizing its focus on securing a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly facility.
The Brampton plant, originally planned for Jeep Compass production retooling starting in January 2024 but halted in February 2025, faced further setbacks when Stellantis revealed its intention to relocate the Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S. in October 2025, resulting in potential indefinite plant shutdown.
Acknowledging the invaluable high-paying union jobs established over decades, Payne stressed the union’s firm stance against the looming closure and its commitment to addressing the issue during forthcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis. Unifor aims to advocate for policies safeguarding Canada’s auto manufacturing sector, highlighting the Brampton Assembly plant’s historical significance as an economic pillar in the community.
As Unifor negotiates new labor agreements with major automakers, with current discussions underway with General Motors and subsequent talks scheduled with Stellantis, the union remains steadfast in its mission to protect the jobs at the Brampton facility. Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s relentless efforts to preserve these crucial jobs, expressing optimism about potential opportunities for the plant’s revival and resumption of vehicle production through collaborative bargaining efforts.
Unifor Local 1285, representing approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant, reassured workers of ongoing support through income security provisions during the plant’s idle period. The City of Brampton, affirming solidarity with Unifor and plant workers, has taken proactive measures to safeguard automotive production at the site, underscoring the city’s commitment to finding a resolution that ensures the plant’s operational continuity and the prompt return of employees.
Government officials at both the federal and provincial levels have been actively engaged in discussions with Stellantis and Unifor to protect jobs, sustain production, and foster long-term investments in Canada. Efforts are underway to explore solutions that uphold the interests of the workers and the local automotive industry, underscoring the collective endeavor to secure a favorable outcome for all stakeholders involved.