French carmaker Renault plans to cut about 3,000 jobs under a voluntary redundancy programme, L’Informe reported on Saturday.
The newsletter said the reduction would affect staff in support functions such as human resources, finance and marketing. The cuts form part of a cost-saving plan known as “Arrow”, which aims to reduce staffing in these areas by around 15%.
According to L’Informe, the job losses would be concentrated at Renault’s headquarters in Boulogne-Billancourt, near Paris, as well as other locations worldwide. A source familiar with the matter told the newsletter that a final decision is expected before the end of the year.
Company confirmation
Renault confirmed that cost-cutting measures are under review, but said no final figures have been determined. “Given the uncertainties in the automotive market and the extremely competitive environment, we confirm that we are considering ways to simplify our operations, speed up execution, and optimise our fixed costs,” a Renault spokesperson said. The company added that no decisions had been made.
At the end of 2024, Renault employed 98,636 people worldwide. If approved, the cuts would represent about 3% of the total workforce.
Renault reported a net loss of €11.2 billion in the first half of 2025, the company said in July. The results included a €9.3 billion write-down on its investment in Japanese partner Nissan. Excluding that impairment, net income fell to €461 million, compared with €1.4 billion in the same period a year earlier.
The company attributed the decline to a weaker van market, higher costs linked to electric vehicle development and commercial pressure in a more competitive environment.
Management change
The planned measures follow a change in leadership. Francois Provost was appointed chief executive in July, replacing Luca de Meo, who left to join French luxury group Kering.
Analysts cited by Les Echos said Provost faces the task of restoring profitability, improving Renault’s balance sheet and regaining an investment-grade credit rating.
Bloomberg reported that Renault’s restructuring comes amid pressure on European automakers from slowing electric vehicle demand, price competition from Chinese manufacturers and potential US tariffs on imported cars.
The Wall Street Journal noted that Renault is smaller in scale than some of its global competitors, making cost control a central focus for management.
The voluntary exit scheme is expected to be finalised by the end of the year, L’Informe reported. Discussions with unions and employee representatives are expected before any implementation.
Until then, Renault has said only that reviews of its cost structure are ongoing.