Unilever to cut 7,500 jobs worldwide

Unilever, the consumer goods giant, has announced plans to cut around 7,500 jobs worldwide as part of a restructuring aimed at saving around 684 million euros (869 million dollars) over the next three years.

The Marmite-to-Dove soap company said the jobs affected were mostly office-based, and the move came as it sought to invest in technology to increase productivity and save money.

The group stated that staff would be consulted about the cuts, but did not specify where they would be made.

The jobs were expected to disappear over the next two years.

Unilever employs 128,000 people worldwide, with 6,000 in Britain.

The CEO, Hein Schumacher, stated: “under the growth action plan we have committed to do fewer things better, and with greater impact.

“The changes we are announcing today will help us accelerate that plan.”

He added: “we are committed to carrying out our productivity programme in consultation with employee representatives, and with respect and care for those of our people who are impacted.”