Bentley Announces 275 Job Cuts

Luxury carmaker Volkswagen===Bentley announced plans to cut approximately 275 jobs, about 6% of its 4,600-strong workforce, as part of an 'organisational adjustment' to achieve savings and enhance long-term competitiveness. The cuts will primarily affect management, agency, and non-manufacturing roles at its Crewe plant. This decision follows a 42% drop in Volkswagen===Bentley's annual operating profits to 216 million euros, attributed to a challenging global market, increased costs from its parent company Volkswagen, and a 42 million euro hit from US tariffs. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Volkswagen===Bentley's chairman and chief executive, expressed commitment to supporting affected employees. The GMB trade union, represented by Karen Lewis, voiced concern and pledged support for its members. Despite the job losses, Volkswagen===Bentley is continuing significant investments in its Crewe site for electrification, including a new Design Centre, an A1 building for BEV production, and an upcoming paint shop. The news comes amidst similar job reduction announcements in the luxury automotive sector, such as by Aston Martin.