Japanese automaker Nissan has begun a comprehensive restructuring process in its European operations, including workforce reductions. As part of the process, centered at the company’s European regional office in France, discussions have begun with union representatives regarding the option of voluntary redundancy. The restructuring plan includes not only personnel changes but also the reduction of global production facilities.
Nissan Undergoing Restructuring
Nissan is preparing for significant changes at its European office in Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France, which employs approximately 560 people. This office coordinates operations not only in Europe but also in Africa, the Middle East, India, and Oceania. The company plans to complete discussions with employee representatives by the end of October, with any decisions to be shared with employees in November.
According to internal memorandum and company documents, a voluntary redundancy package was discussed in the first phase of the discussions. Employees will be offered the option of severance with severance pay. Compulsory redundancies are expected to be considered in the second phase. A source familiar with the process emphasized that extensive changes will be made at the regional office.
The restructuring is part of a global transformation plan launched by Ivan Espinosa, who took over as CEO in April. The plan targets a reduction of approximately 15% in Nissan’s global workforce. In addition, production capacity will be reduced by 30% to 2.5 million vehicles annually, and only 10 of its 17 production facilities will remain operational.
The company is expected to save approximately $3.4 billion from this restructuring. These steps are considered a response to Nissan’s weak performance, particularly in the Chinese and US markets, and to the structural pressures created by its aggressive growth strategy in previous years.
Plant closures are also a key part of the restructuring plan. Nissan recently announced that its Civac plant in Mexico will close in March 2026. The Oppama plant in Japan will cease production in March 2028, and the Shonan plant, owned by Nissan-Shatai, will cease production in March 2027.
