Écully, France, February 25, 2026 – The SEB Group, the French household appliance giant behind brands like Moulinex, Tefal, and Rowenta, announced on Wednesday a major restructuring plan that includes the elimination of up to 2,100 jobs globally, with 500 positions specifically in France. The company, based in Écully, near Lyon, is facing pressures from declining growth and profitability, prompting a drastic cost-saving initiative first outlined last October.
Global Restructuring: 2,100 Positions to Be Cut
In conjunction with the presentation of its 2025 financial results, SEB began discussions with trade unions on Wednesday regarding a plan designed to “regain” a “profitable growth trajectory” and adapt to an “increasingly rapid and intense” competitive landscape, particularly from Asian markets. Stanislas de Gramont, CEO of SEB, confirmed the figures to AFP.
Impact on France: 500 Jobs Affected
Within France, the job cuts will primarily target “support activities” such as finance and human resources, as well as logistics, marketing, and product development. De Gramont indicated that artificial intelligence would play a role in these rationalizations. Seven legal entities in France are potentially affected by this plan, including sites in Pont-Évêque (Isère), Mayenne (Mayenne), Rumilly (Haute-Savoie), and the company’s headquarters in Écully, on the outskirts of Lyon.
De Gramont assured that production roles in France are “not concerned” by these suppressions, and there will be “no forced departures.” He emphasized that “Our first priority is to restore profitability (…), because we experienced an accident in 2025” in this area.
Wider European and International Implications
Across the rest of Europe, up to 900 positions could be affected. SEB was also scheduled to initiate discussions with social partners on Wednesday morning, notably in Germany, concerning the future of production at three factories, as well as retail outlets.
Outside of Europe, approximately 700 potential job cuts will be “equally distributed,” with some countries such as Egypt, Turkey, or Brazil experiencing a slightly higher impact, according to the CEO.
Addressing Market Challenges and Competition
The company aims to regain competitiveness and adapt to a challenging market environment. The comprehensive plan seeks to streamline operations and enhance efficiency across its global footprint.
The announcement has raised concerns among employees and trade unions, who are now engaging in discussions with the company’s management regarding the implementation of these changes and potential support measures for affected staff.
The SEB Group’s decision reflects a broader trend among major corporations to optimize their structures in response to economic pressures and evolving market dynamics. The company remains committed to its long-term strategy of innovation and market leadership, while navigating a period of significant internal transformation.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/lyon_69123/pres-de-lyon-douche-froide-pour-les-salaries-de-seb-jusqu-a-2-100-postes-bientot-supprimes_63890342.html
