Global automaker Stellantis has announced that tariffs and consumer demand in North America are the main factors behind extended layoffs at its Windsor, Ontario plant. The facility, which employs over 6,400 workers, will be idled for three weeks starting later this month. This comes after a two-week layoff period, with employees scheduled to return to work on Monday.
Stellantis Canada stated that it is continuously assessing and adapting its manufacturing operations in response to changing market conditions, including consumer demand and tariff impacts. As part of these adjustments, the Windsor Assembly Plant will be inactive during the weeks of October 19, October 26, and November 2.
This news of additional layoffs adds uncertainty for Stellantis employees in Windsor, where they manufacture Chrysler Pacifica minivans and Dodge Charger muscle cars. Contract negotiations between Stellantis and Unifor, the union representing the workers, are at a standstill, primarily due to disagreements regarding the future of the company’s Brampton assembly plant in Ontario.
Stellantis has expressed its intention to sell the Brampton plant, citing market and trade conditions, a move that Unifor strongly opposes. Despite the expired collective agreement between Unifor and Stellantis since September 20, contract negotiations have not progressed, with workers adhering to the terms of the previous agreement for the time being.
James Stewart, president of Unifor Local 444, conveyed the latest layoff information on social media, expressing disappointment at the increased downtime. Stewart emphasized the importance of securing more product allocations for Windsor and the Etobicoke casting plant in contract discussions. Employees in Windsor can expect further updates on the negotiation progress upon their return to work.
Stewart, who was unavailable for an interview, mentioned in a video update that a leaflet detailing the bargaining updates and future expectations will be distributed to employees. The workforce eagerly anticipates more information on the ongoing negotiation process.
