Full Breakdown
Stellantis-Roshel Deal Triggers Strike Threat at Brampton Plant
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
The Unifor union, representing more than 9,000 Stellantis workers in Canada, warned that a strike is a “real possibility” after the automaker’s negotiations stalled over its intention to sell the idled Brampton assembly plant in Ontario. Stellantis disclosed a memorandum of understanding with defence contractor Roshel to explore a sale of the facility, which has been idle since 2023. Union leader Lana Payne said the sale threatens the collective bargaining process and could lead to industrial action before the current contract expires in September.
Background & Context
The Brampton plant was originally slated for retooling to produce the Jeep Compass, a plan that was paused in early 2025 and later shifted to a U.S. location. Since its idling in 2023, the plant has remained unused, and Stellantis has evaluated “a range of options” for returning production, ultimately concluding that none offered a sustainable long-term business case. Roshel has indicated willingness to consider hiring laid-off workers if the sale proceeds.
Official Statements & Responses
- Lana Payne, Unifor national president – reiterated the union’s demand that Stellantis resume retooling for the Jeep Compass and reject any closure or sale. She emphasized that the union’s position has not wavered and that the plant should remain a pathway to future vehicle production.
- Mélanie Joly, federal Industry Minister – said Ottawa wants to see a “new model from Stellantis” at the Brampton site and will apply “maximum pressure” to achieve that outcome. She has been asked to clarify any government discussions with Stellantis regarding the MOU.
- Stellantis – in a letter shared with CBC, the automaker affirmed its “firm commitment to Canada,” citing ongoing operations in Windsor and Etobicoke, while stating that the evaluated options did not support continued operations at Brampton. The company expressed willingness to meet with Unifor and Roshel to discuss the plant’s future.
Data & Statistics
- Union membership: > 9,000 Stellantis workers in Canada.
- Current collective agreement expiration: in September
Verbatim Quotes
- “Stellantis is one-hundred per cent serious about exiting Brampton. Currently that is their only plan. Everyone needs to understand this, especially our governments,” — Lana Payne, unifor national president — Lana Payne, Unifor national president