Unifor, a national labor union, disclosed that Stellantis has informed them of contemplating the potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant. Unifor’s president, Lana Payne, stated that they received verbal notification from Stellantis this week regarding these intentions. However, Stellantis has not yet provided the official written notice of closure as mandated by the collective agreement.
According to Payne, Stellantis is obligated to give the union a minimum of one year’s notice before any closure or sale. The company has indicated its plan to engage in discussions with another entity regarding the potential sale of the plant. Payne expressed deep disappointment over the situation, emphasizing the impact on union members who have dedicated themselves to the facility.
Stellantis, in response, issued a statement affirming their focus on seeking a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly Plant as they prepare for upcoming collective bargaining negotiations.
Payne highlighted that the plant was slated for retooling to produce Jeep Compass vehicles, a process that commenced in January 2024 but was halted in February 2025. Subsequently, in October 2025, Stellantis informed the union of their decision to relocate Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the United States, leading to a potential indefinite shutdown of the plant.
The union plans to address this issue during the forthcoming contract discussions with Stellantis, emphasizing the significance of preserving high-paying union jobs in the automotive sector built over decades. Unifor will also continue advocating for government policies to safeguard Canada’s auto manufacturing industry, citing the Brampton plant’s historical role in the community.
As Unifor engages in negotiations with automakers, including Stellantis, Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, reiterated their commitment to fighting for the retention of jobs at the Brampton plant. The union remains optimistic about finding solutions to sustain vehicle production and ensure workers’ return to the facility.
Unifor Local 1285 represents approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant, and while the plant is inactive, workers are receiving income security equivalent to 70% of their earnings, according to the union.
Local authorities, including the City of Brampton and federal agencies, have expressed solidarity with Unifor and the plant workers, actively working to protect jobs and secure long-term investments in Canada’s automotive sector.