Stellantis is reportedly contemplating the closure and potential sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant, according to a national union. Unifor national president Lana Payne disclosed that the union was informed by Stellantis about these potential actions on Wednesday, although formal written notice of the plant’s closure, as stipulated in the collective agreement, has not been provided.
Under the collective agreement terms, Stellantis is required to give the union at least one year’s notice before any closure or sale. Payne mentioned that the company has expressed its intention to engage in discussions with another entity regarding the potential sale of the plant. She expressed deep disappointment, emphasizing the impact on union members who have dedicated their efforts to the plant.
Stellantis responded with a statement on Friday, indicating that they are gearing up for collective bargaining discussions and currently have no specific announcements. The company reiterated its commitment to seeking a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly.
Payne highlighted that the plant was initially scheduled for retooling for Jeep Compass production, which commenced in January 2024 but was halted in February 2025. Subsequently, in October 2025, Stellantis informed the union about plans to relocate Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S., potentially leading to an indefinite plant shutdown.
Emphasizing the significance of high-paying union jobs established through decades of auto sector agreements, Payne stressed that the current situation is unacceptable to the union and its members. She vowed to address the matter in upcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis, underscoring the importance of protecting jobs and the auto manufacturing sector in Canada.
As negotiations proceed, Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s commitment to safeguarding jobs at the Brampton plant, emphasizing the critical nature of these positions. He expressed optimism about exploring opportunities during bargaining sessions to revive vehicle production at the plant, rejecting the notion of closure as a viable option.
Unifor Local 1285, representing approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant, noted that workers are currently receiving income security amid the plant’s idle status, ensuring financial stability during this period. The union continues to advocate for government policies that protect Canada’s auto manufacturing industry, underscoring the plant’s historical significance and economic contribution to the Brampton community.
In response to the developments, the City of Brampton reiterated its support for Unifor and the plant workers, taking measures to safeguard automotive manufacturing at the site. The city remains hopeful for a resolution that preserves automotive production in Brampton and facilitates the workers’ return to the plant.
Government entities, including Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, are actively engaging with Stellantis, Unifor, and the Ontario government to preserve jobs, secure production, and foster long-term investments in Canada. The federal government is committed to working collaboratively to protect the interests of the workers at the Brampton plant and sustain its operations within the country.