Unifor, a national union, has been informed by Stellantis this week that there is a strong possibility of the Brampton Assembly Plant being closed and put up for sale. Lana Payne, the national president of Unifor, stated in a press conference that while Stellantis has shared preliminary information with the union about these potential actions, they have not yet provided formal written notice of the plant’s closure as stipulated in the collective agreement.
According to Payne, Stellantis is obligated under the collective agreement 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 initiate discussions with another entity regarding the potential sale of the plant.
Expressing disappointment, Payne described the situation as a significant blow to the union and its members, emphasizing the dedication of the workers at the plant. Stellantis, in a statement, mentioned that they are gearing up for collective bargaining and currently have no announcements to make, reiterating their commitment to finding a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton facility.
The plant was originally set to undergo retooling for Jeep Compass production, which commenced in January 2024 but was halted in February 2025. In October 2025, Stellantis informed the union of its decision to shift the production of Jeep Compass from Brampton to the U.S., resulting in a potential indefinite shutdown of the plant.
Unifor plans to address this issue during upcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis, with Payne emphasizing the significance of preserving high-paying union jobs established through decades of auto sector agreements.
Furthermore, the union will persist in urging the federal government to implement policies safeguarding Canada’s auto manufacturing sector. Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s commitment to fighting for the retention of jobs at the Brampton plant, emphasizing the importance of these roles to the local community and economy.
While negotiations are ongoing with General Motors, Unifor is scheduled to engage with Stellantis next, as their current contract covering plants in Brampton, Windsor, and Etobicoke is set to expire on September 20.
Unifor Local 1285, representing approximately 2,200 members at the Brampton plant, disclosed that workers are currently receiving income support during the plant’s idle period. The City of Brampton and federal authorities have expressed their solidarity with Unifor and the plant’s workforce, emphasizing their commitment to preserving automotive production in Brampton and ensuring the return of workers to the facility in due course.