Stellantis is reportedly contemplating the potential closure and sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant, according to a national union. Unifor national president Lana Payne disclosed that the union had received information from Stellantis on Wednesday regarding these deliberations, although the company has not yet delivered a formal written notice of closure as per the collective agreement. Payne highlighted that Stellantis is obligated to provide the union with at least one year’s notice in the event of a closure or sale, and has expressed interest in engaging in discussions with another entity for the potential sale of the plant.
Expressing deep disappointment, Payne emphasized the significant impact this news has on the union and its members, who have dedicated their efforts to the plant. Stellantis, in response, stated its focus on engaging in collective bargaining and emphasized its commitment to finding a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly.
The union revealed that plans to retool the plant for Jeep Compass production, which commenced in January 2024 but was halted in February 2025, have been disrupted. Furthermore, the decision to relocate Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S. was communicated to the union in October 2025, leading to the indefinite idling of the plant.
Unifor stressed the irreplaceable nature of the high-paying union jobs established through decades of auto sector agreements. The union pledges to address these concerns with Stellantis during upcoming contract negotiations, advocating for better outcomes for Brampton workers and the local community.
Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding jobs at the plant, stating that giving up on workers is not an option. The union remains optimistic about exploring opportunities to resume vehicle production in Brampton, emphasizing that closure is not a viable solution.
Unifor Local 1285 represents approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant, who are currently receiving income security during the plant’s idle period. The City of Brampton, along with federal and provincial authorities, is actively engaged in discussions to protect automotive production at the site and ensure the long-term viability of the plant in Canada.
