As layoffs hit autoworkers in Windsor, employees at the General Motors plant in St. Catharines are watching with growing anxiety about their own job security. Recent production halts at both the Stellantis Windsor Assembly plant and GM’s Ingersoll CAMI facility have raised concerns throughout Ontario’s auto manufacturing sector.
Stellantis temporarily stopped production in Windsor for two weeks, affecting around 4,000 workers due to engine shortages. At the same time, GM halted operations at its Ingersoll plant because of low demand for BrightDrop electric vehicles. These developments aren’t related to tariffs but instead reflect market adjustments and weak consumer demand for EVs.
Workers in St. Catharines fear they could be next as the auto industry adapts to changing market conditions. The shift from traditional combustion engines to electric vehicles has created uncertainty for many manufacturing roles. Union representatives have emphasized the need for strategies to protect Canadian jobs during this period of change. General Motors recently announced temporary layoffs of 200 workers at Factory ZERO to align production with current market dynamics.
GM plans to resume limited production at the Ingersoll plant in May after retooling for 2026 EV models, but will operate with reduced shifts. This will affect about 500 workers, adding to concerns about similar cuts at other facilities.
The economic impact extends beyond just the directly affected workers. Communities that rely on manufacturing jobs face instability, and local businesses suffer from reduced consumer spending. The layoffs in Windsor could potentially impact tens of thousands of workers indirectly through supply chain and supporting industries.
Unifor, the union representing auto workers, has urged GM to extend benefits and honor commitments to Canadian workers during retooling periods. Many workers are concerned about insufficient government action to protect manufacturing jobs.
These auto sector challenges coincide with broader economic strain, as Canada lost 33,000 jobs in March 2025. As the industry continues its transition toward electric vehicles, St. Catharines workers remain vigilant, hoping they won’t face similar disruptions to their colleagues in Windsor and Ingersoll.
Economic uncertainty is touching many industries, and the ripple effects are being felt close to home. Workers in Niagara are watching developments closely as the landscape shifts. For more regional economic updates and labor news, visit Marketplace Niagara.
