Bosch to Cut 13,000 Jobs Amid Weak Market and Rising Costs

Germany’s Robert Bosch, the world’s largest automotive supplier, has announced plans to cut 13,000 jobs by 2030 as it faces sluggish demand, rising costs, and intensifying competition in the global auto industry. The company cited an annual cost gap of €2.5 billion ($2.9 billion) as a key driver behind the decision.

Bosch said the job reductions will be implemented across multiple German locations over staggered timelines. Alongside layoffs, the company aims to cut material and operating costs, streamline logistics, and scale back investments in facilities and buildings.

Stefan Grosch, management board member and director of industrial relations, said the move was necessary to safeguard long-term competitiveness. “We urgently need to work on our competitiveness in the mobility sector and permanently reduce costs. This is very painful for us, but unfortunately there is no way around it,” he stated.

The company has previously warned of fierce price wars in the auto sector, with weaker demand and global trade barriers adding to pressure. Bosch, which employs about 418,000 people worldwide, generated €90.5 billion in revenues last year. CEO Stefan Hartung recently told Reuters that while structural adjustments are unavoidable, Bosch still expects revenue to grow around 2% in 2025.

The restructuring comes amid broader shifts in the auto industry, as manufacturers navigate high costs, supply chain disruptions, and the transition to electric mobility. While Washington recently reduced tariffs on EU auto imports to 15%, Germany’s VDA car industry association noted that trade barriers remain a significant hurdle.

Bosch board member Markus Heyn warned that competition will only intensify further. “Geopolitical developments and tariffs create considerable uncertainty. Like all companies, we must adapt to this reality,” he said.