Unifor threatens Stellantis strikes over Brampton plant sale

The Canadian union Unifor has threatened strike action as negotiations with Stellantis reach an impasse regarding the future of the Brampton Assembly Plant in Ontario. The union, which represents over 9,000 Stellantis employees across Canada, is facing an expiring collective agreement amid uncertainty over the facility's operations.

Stellantis has signed a memorandum of understanding with Roshel, a Canadian defense equipment manufacturer, regarding a potential sale of the site. The Brampton plant has been idle since late 2023 following the conclusion of production for the Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, and Chrysler 300. While Stellantis had previously considered retooling the plant for the Jeep Compass, that production was shifted to Illinois.

Unifor President Lana Payne has called on federal Industry Minister Mélanie Joly to intervene and block the sale. In response, Stellantis has encouraged the union to meet with Roshel to discuss the manufacturer's plans. Roshel stated its proposal could create approximately 2,000 jobs and that former Stellantis employees would receive ‘first consideration’ for employment, though initial production levels may be significantly lower than previous automotive output.