Stellantis Announces Temporary Production Halt at Detroit Assembly Complex

Stellantis has announced that there will be no scheduled production at the Detroit Assembly Complex – Jefferson (DACJ) from October 28 to November 1, 2024. This news comes on the heels of recent layoffs in September, where several hundred workers were let go by October 1, marking a significant shift in the plant’s operations amid ongoing challenges for the automaker.

The decision to halt production affects the assembly of the Jeep® Grand Cherokee (WL) and Dodge Durango (WD), both of which are produced at the DACJ facility. Excluding departments 3372 and 3440, all other employees, including skilled trades, will be canvassed for work and notified by management during this temporary layoff period.

In the previous round of layoffs, Stellantis cut 142 supplemental workers and 69 full-time employees at the Jefferson side of the complex. Meanwhile, the Mack side, which produces the Grand Cherokee exclusively, saw reductions of 170 supplemental workers and 36 full-time employees. Supplemental workers, often referred to as temps, play a critical role in covering shifts and supporting regular workers.

Local union leaders indicated that the layoffs were part of Stellantis’s broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency. A recent communication to full-time employees at the Jefferson plant labeled the layoff as “indefinite,” underscoring the company’s ongoing assessments of its manufacturing processes.

The decision to reduce production at DACJ aligns with recent market trends, as slow sales and high inventory levels on dealer lots have prompted Stellantis to adopt a shift-by-shift scheduling approach. This strategy aims to better align production with current demand.

Jeep recently launched the 2025 model year Grand Cherokee, while the 2025 Dodge Durango marks the final year of production for the iconic HEMI® engine in the three-row sporty SUV. Despite these new model year vehicles entering the market, the overall sales environment remains challenging, necessitating adjustments in production at the DACJ facility.

Stellantis has emphasized its commitment to improving operations within the U.S. market. Stellantis spokesperson Ann Marie Fortunate stated in September, “Stellantis continues to take the necessary actions to improve operations in the U.S. market, which includes making production adjustments at the Detroit Assembly Complex – Jefferson plant in general assembly only. Other operations at the plant will continue as scheduled to support production at the Mack Assembly Plant.”