Unifor, a national labor union, revealed that Stellantis has signaled a potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant. Despite receiving informal information from Stellantis regarding these plans, the union emphasized that no formal written notice has been issued as required by their collective agreement. According to Unifor’s national president Lana Payne, Stellantis is obligated to provide a minimum of one year’s notice to the union before any closure or sale. Payne further mentioned that Stellantis has hinted at engaging in discussions with another company for the potential sale of the plant.
Expressing disappointment, Payne described the situation as profoundly disheartening, particularly for the dedicated workers who have devoted their efforts to the plant. Stellantis, in response, stated that they are gearing up for collective bargaining proceedings and currently have no official announcements to make. The company emphasized its commitment to seeking a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly facility.
Regarding the plant’s operational changes, Payne noted that the retooling process for Jeep Compass production, initiated in January 2024, was halted in February 2025. Subsequently, in October 2025, Stellantis informed the union about relocating Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S., resulting in the plant’s indefinite shutdown.
Unifor plans to address these concerns with Stellantis during forthcoming contract negotiations, emphasizing the irreplaceable nature of the high-paying union jobs forged through decades of auto sector collaboration. Payne stressed that the union and its members find the situation unacceptable, advocating for better outcomes for the Brampton workforce and the broader community.
Additionally, Unifor reiterated its call for government intervention to safeguard Canada’s auto manufacturing sector, highlighting the historical significance of the Brampton Assembly plant as a vital economic entity. Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s determination to safeguard jobs at the Brampton facility, emphasizing the importance of these roles. Beato projected a positive future for Brampton, expressing optimism about potential opportunities for the plant’s revival in negotiations.
Unifor Local 1285 represents approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant, with workers currently receiving income security during the plant’s idleness. The union emphasized its ongoing efforts to protect the jobs and economic viability of the Brampton facility.
The City of Brampton, through a statement from Mayor Patrick Brown’s spokesperson, affirmed its solidarity with Unifor and the plant workers, outlining measures taken to preserve automotive manufacturing at the site. Similarly, the federal government, represented by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, reiterated its commitment to supporting the Brampton plant’s workforce and ensuring continued operations within Canada through collaborative engagements with stakeholders.