Adidas CEO: We need to cut up to 500 roles in headquarters

Adidas CEO: We need to cut up to 500 roles in headquarters

Adidas, the renowned German sportswear manufacturer, is set to undergo a significant restructuring process, with plans to eliminate up to 500 roles in its headquarters [1]. The layoffs will primarily affect employees at the company's headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany [1][2].

According to sources familiar with the matter, Adidas has not yet determined the exact number of positions to be eliminated [1]. However, the potential job cuts represent nearly 9% of the 5,800 staffers employed at the location [1]. The decision to initiate the layoffs comes after employees learned about the changes just a day after Adidas announced preliminary profit results for its holiday quarter [1].

Adidas CEO Bjoern Gulden has emphasized that the job cuts are not part of a cost-cutting program but rather an effort to adapt the business to its current state [2]. Gulden has been leading the company's decentralization efforts, shifting responsibility from headquarters to individual markets [2].

The announcement of the layoffs comes as Adidas continues to grapple with the challenges of the ever-evolving retail industry and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic [2]. The company posted its fourth-quarter figures for 2024 on Tuesday, showcasing a mixed performance [2].

Adidas has not yet provided further details on the timing and implementation of the layoffs [1][2]. The company has stated that it will work closely with the Works Council to ensure that any changes are handled with the utmost respect and care for all employees [2].

References:
[1] Golden, S., & Fonrouge, T. (2023, January 24). Adidas lays off up to 500 jobs in a bid to simplify its business. SportsBusiness Journal. https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/01/24/adidas-layoffs-hq-germany/
[2] The Industry. (2023, January 24). Adidas to cut 500 jobs at head office. The Industry. https://www.theindustry.fashion/adidas-to-cut-500-jobs-at-head-office/