Stellantis ‘seriously considering’ closing Ontario assembly plant: Unifor

Unifor president Lana Payne revealed on Friday that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now known as Stellantis, is "seriously considering" closing its Brampton, Ontario assembly plant. This follows the automaker's announcement in October 2025 that it would be moving Jeep Compass production from Brampton to Illinois, effectively idling the plant indefinitely.

Payne stated, "Stellantis notified us that it would move the future Jeep Compass production slated for Brampton to the United States, idling the plant indefinitely." She emphasized that while Stellantis has consistently reiterated its commitment to Brampton, the recent information received suggests a change in plans. Stellantis responded to the news, saying it is preparing to enter collective bargaining with the union, adding that its focus remains on finding a sustainable manufacturing solution for the Brampton plant.

The decision to potentially close the plant comes amid ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the U.S., including the upcoming 50% tariffs set to take effect on August 19, which are aimed at the Canadian auto sector. Unifor's Payne expressed concern, stating, "This is not an industry that should be subjected to tariffs from the United States. Our trade in auto is completely balanced with the U.S."