Ontario Premier Doug Ford and federal Industry Minister Mélanie Joly are urging Stellantis to introduce a new model at its dormant Brampton, Ont., assembly plant following the automaker’s announcement of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a potential sale.
Stellantis recently disclosed the signing of an MOU with Canadian armoured vehicle manufacturer Roshel for the potential sale of its Brampton facility. Minister Joly emphasized the need to safeguard Canadian workers in any sale while pressing for a commitment to a new model from Stellantis at the plant.
Premier Ford echoed Minister Joly’s sentiments, emphasizing the exceptional skills of Canadian autoworkers and the importance of securing a new model for the Brampton plant. Stellantis, a significant employer in Ontario with over 11,000 workers, is urged to enhance its operations in the province.
The Brampton plant, which has been inactive since 2023 and initially earmarked for Jeep Compass production before plans were halted in early 2025, faced backlash when production of the vehicle was shifted to the U.S. This decision led to government threats of legal action due to commitments made by Stellantis to maintain production at the Brampton plant in exchange for a substantial incentive.
The potential sale of the Brampton plant under the MOU with Roshel has raised concerns among Unifor, the union representing plant workers. With the current collective agreement set to expire soon, talks are at a standstill, as highlighted in a letter from Unifor’s National President Lana Payne to Minister Joly, expressing worries about the impact on over 2,000 workers.
Payne emphasized the government’s responsibility to prevent adverse outcomes, criticizing Stellantis’ proposed sale to a non-automaker and urging strong opposition from federal authorities.
The ongoing developments surrounding the Brampton plant sale have prompted apprehension and calls for action from various stakeholders, underscoring the significance of securing the plant’s future and safeguarding the interests of Canadian autoworkers.