Stellantis is reportedly contemplating the potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant, according to a national union. Unifor’s national president, Lana Payne, disclosed that the union was informed by Stellantis of these developments earlier in the week. However, Stellantis has not yet provided the union with the formal written notice of closure as stipulated in their collective agreement.
Under the terms of the agreement, Stellantis is obligated to give the union at least one year’s notice in the event of a closure or sale. The company has expressed its intention to engage in discussions with another entity regarding the potential sale of the plant. Payne expressed deep disappointment at the news, emphasizing the impact on union members who have dedicated themselves to the plant.
In response to inquiries, Stellantis issued a statement on Friday stating that they are gearing up for collective bargaining and currently have no official announcements to make. The company’s primary focus remains on finding a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly facility.
The union revealed that the plant was slated for retooling to produce Jeep Compass vehicles, but this process was halted in February 2025. Subsequently, the company informed the union in October 2025 about plans to shift Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S., leading to a potential indefinite shutdown of the plant.
Unifor emphasized the significance of the high-paying union jobs created through the auto sector collective agreement and vowed to address the matter during upcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis. The union also reiterated its call for government policies to safeguard Canada’s auto manufacturing sector.
Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s commitment to fighting to preserve jobs at the Brampton plant, stressing the importance of these roles to the community. The union is advocating for opportunities to retain production at the plant and ensure a viable path forward in future discussions.
Unifor Local 1285 represents approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton facility, with workers currently receiving income security while the plant is inactive. The City of Brampton and federal authorities have expressed support for the workers and are actively engaged in efforts to protect jobs and maintain automotive production in the region.
