Bentley to reduce headcount amid profit drop and restructuring drive

Bentley is set to cut jobs at its Crewe plant as part of a wider efficiency programme, with union representatives warning the decision has come as a shock to staff.

The luxury car-maker confirmed the move alongside its latest financial results, which showed a 40% drop in profits despite a seventh consecutive year of overall profitability.

GMB Union said workers had been left “stunned” by the announcement.

Karen Lewis, organiser at GMB Union, said: “These cuts have come out of the blue and the workforce is stunned.

“Trump’s tariff’s have hit Bentley hard and the company is still feeling the affects of the covid lockdown.

“GMB will stand side by side with members in Bentley to ensure the minimum redundancies and the maximum pay outs.”

Bentley reported operating profit of €216m on revenue of €2.6bn, with results impacted by external factors including tariffs, foreign exchange pressures and one-off accounting effects.

Customer deliveries fell by 5% over the year, reflecting weaker global demand, particularly in China, although this was partly offset by stronger demand for higher-margin models and bespoke Mulliner derivatives.