Mississauga Refinery Set to Retire Base Oil Production by 2027

After more than 80 years in operation, the Clarkson Oil Refinery in Mississauga is set to retire its base oil refining assets by 2027. The move is part of a broader restructuring plan by HF Sinclair Corporation, which owns the 427-acre site.

The refinery currently produces approximately 15,600 barrels of base oil per day and has been Canada's largest base oil producer. However, under the new plan, the company will instead rely on base oils supplied through agreements with two global manufacturers.

Unifor, the union representing workers at the site, has expressed concerns over the decision, citing job losses and a negative impact on Canadian industry. 'This is a reckless decision made in a Dallas boardroom by people who will never have to look these workers in the eye,' said Unifor National President Lana Payne.

The Mississauga Lubricants Centre will continue to operate as a blender and packager of imported base oils, but production will no longer be carried out on-site. The site's future remains uncertain, with HF Sinclair stating that portions of the property will remain active for blending, packaging, research, and logistics.