Unifor, a national labor union, has been informed by Stellantis this week about the potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant. Unifor national president Lana Payne stated that while the company has not provided a formal written notice of closure, they are contemplating discussions with another entity for the plant’s sale. Payne expressed disappointment at the news, emphasizing the impact on union members who have dedicated themselves to the facility.
Stellantis responded by stating they are gearing up for collective bargaining and have no immediate announcements. They reiterated their commitment to finding a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly plant.
Payne highlighted that the plant was undergoing retooling for Jeep Compass production, which was halted in February 2025, leading to the potential relocation of production to the U.S. Unifor plans to address this issue in upcoming negotiations with Stellantis, emphasizing the importance of preserving high-paying union jobs in the auto industry.
Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s determination to protect jobs at the Brampton plant, emphasizing that giving up on the workers is not an option. Unifor local 1285 represents approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton facility, currently receiving income security benefits during the idle period.
The union continues to advocate for government policies safeguarding Canada’s auto manufacturing sector, as discussions with automakers like Stellantis and General Motors unfold. Local authorities, including Brampton’s mayor, have expressed solidarity with Unifor and the plant workers, emphasizing the importance of automotive production in the region. The federal government is actively engaging with stakeholders to secure production, protect jobs, and ensure long-term investments in Canada.