The union representing Canadian workers at Stellantis is urging the automaker to uphold its commitment to retool the Brampton Ont., plant amid indications of a potential sale. Stellantis recently disclosed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Canadian armored vehicle maker Roshel regarding the potential sale of the Brampton plant.
The Brampton facility has been inactive since 2023, initially scheduled for retooling for Jeep Compass production before the company halted the plan in early 2025. Subsequently, the decision was made to shift production of the vehicle model to the U.S instead.
During a news conference in Windsor on Thursday, Unifor national president Lana Payne expressed the union’s disagreement with the automaker’s intention to sell. Payne emphasized that Stellantis is resolute in exiting Brampton, stressing the importance of the government’s awareness of this situation.
The union’s stance remains unwavering in advocating for Stellantis to initiate the promised retooling of the Jeep Compass rather than selling or closing the plant, emphasizing the significance of preserving the facility for future vehicle production.
Regarding Stellantis’ position, a letter obtained by CBC News from a worker at the Brampton plant highlighted the automaker’s steadfast commitment to Canada, citing their longstanding presence in the country and ongoing operations in Windsor, Etobicoke, and investments in advanced research and development.
Stellantis conveyed that despite exploring various options to bring production back to Brampton, none presented a sustainable long-term business case to support ongoing operations at the facility. CBC has reached out to Stellantis, Roshel, and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada for comments.
In response to the recent developments, Payne called upon federal Industry Minister Mélanie Joly for clarification on the government’s involvement in the MOU between Stellantis and Roshel and the potential sale of the Brampton plant. Concerns were raised about the timing of the sale amidst trade tensions and ongoing collective bargaining negotiations.
The current collective agreement between Stellantis and the union is scheduled to expire on September 20 at 11:59 p.m., with Roshel’s involvement introducing complexities to the bargaining process. Payne emphasized the necessity for transparency and clarity in the discussions surrounding the future of the Brampton plant.
