A major labor union has been informed by Stellantis that there is a serious consideration for the closure and potential sale of the Brampton Assembly Plant. Unifor national president Lana Payne revealed that the union received verbal communication from Stellantis regarding these plans, but no official written notice has been provided as per the collective agreement requirements. The company is obligated to provide a minimum of one year’s notice to the union for any closure or sale, and it has expressed intentions to engage in discussions with another entity for the potential sale of the plant.
Describing the situation as deeply disappointing, Payne expressed concern for the impact on the union and its dedicated members who have contributed significantly to the plant. Stellantis, in response, stated that they are gearing up for collective bargaining discussions and currently have no specific announcements, emphasizing their focus on securing a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton Assembly facility.
The plant was initially planned for Jeep Compass production retooling, which commenced in January 2024 before being halted in February 2025. Subsequently, in October 2025, Stellantis informed the union about relocating the Jeep Compass production from Brampton to the U.S., potentially leading to a prolonged shutdown of the plant.
Unifor criticized the potential loss of high-paying union jobs with a rich automotive sector history, stressing the importance of protecting these positions. The union intends to address these concerns during upcoming contract negotiations with Stellantis, highlighting the significance of securing a favorable outcome for Brampton workers and the local community.
Vito Beato, president of Unifor Local 1285, affirmed the union’s commitment to advocating for the preservation of jobs at the Brampton plant, underscoring the critical nature of these employment opportunities. Unifor local 1285, representing approximately 2,200 members at the plant, mentioned that workers are currently receiving income security during the plant’s idle period, covering 70% of their regular income.
The City of Brampton expressed solidarity with Unifor and plant workers, emphasizing efforts to safeguard automotive manufacturing in the region by zoning the lands for exclusive automotive use. Additionally, the federal government, through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, reiterated its commitment to supporting the Brampton plant workers and ensuring continued operations and investments in Canada through active engagement with Stellantis, Unifor, and the Ontario government.