Bosch CEO Stefan Hartung told the Stuttgarter Zeitung and the Stuttgarter Nachrichten that 6 000 jobs have been cut in the mobility sector in Germany so far. The automotive supplier is currently responding to the changing industry and the subdued demand for electric vehicles. One of the countermeasures being implemented is a large-scale voluntary reduction programme. This affects approximately 22 000 jobs in the automotive division at its German locations, which are slated to be eliminated in the coming years. Hartung noted that Bosch still has the majority of the work ahead of it.

Around €2.7 billion in provisions have been set aside
Furthermore, agreements and settlements have been reached in negotiations with employee representatives at almost all affected locations in recent months. Hartung stated: “This was very challenging for both sides, but it makes a crucial contribution to closing the cost gap and thus securing Bosch’s competitiveness and future viability.” The Bosch Group has, as is well known, set aside €2.7 billion for job cuts in 2025. According to the Bosch CEO, this means that all financial burdens are accounted for on paper – but not yet in reality. The provisions bring forward the impact on profits, but the money for departing employees will only be paid out in the coming years. Last year, almost €900 million was already paid out to departing employees.

A Bosch spokesperson announced that the necessary staff reductions will be implemented in a socially responsible manner, offering early retirement and phased retirement, voluntary severance packages, and placement in other internal or external positions. The local agreements also include measures such as investments in future-oriented fields and the safeguarding of training departments, the spokesperson added. This will most likely close the annual cost gap of €2.5 billion in the mobility division, thus securing Bosch’s competitiveness and future viability.