Heineken to cut up to 6,000 jobs
Heineken targets major cost savings as softer volumes and market pressures reshape global operations
Print13 February 2026
Heineken has recently announced plans to reduce its global workforce by between 5,000 and 6,000 roles over the next two years as part of a wide-ranging cost and productivity programme unveiled alongside its 2025 full-year results.
The brewer reported modest net revenue growth for the year but faced continued pressure on total beer volumes, reflecting softer consumer demand and ongoing economic challenges across several key markets.
Simplifying things
Management said the restructuring will simplify the organisation, centralise selected functions and streamline overlapping roles, with the aim of delivering annual gross savings of €400–€500 million.
The measures form part of Heineken’s EverGreen 2030 strategy, which focuses on productivity, premiumisation and disciplined investment in its brand portfolio.
The company said savings generated through the programme will help fund brand building, innovation and digital capabilities, while strengthening margins in a competitive global beer market.
Heineken confirmed it will engage with employee representatives where required and provide appropriate support to affected staff.
For retailers and drinks operators, the results reflect the continued recalibration of global brewers as they respond to shifting consumption patterns, cost inflation and margin pressure across both on- and off-trade channels.
Read more: Heineken CEO Dolf van den Brink steps down
© 2026, ShelfLife by Ryan Brennan
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