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Japanese car manufacturer Nissan has unveiled plans for a significant restructuring of its European operations, placing around 900 jobs at risk, close to 10% of its regional workforce. The move comes as part of a broader effort to streamline operations and reduce costs amid ongoing pressures in the global automotive industry.

The company confirmed that two production lines at its major manufacturing facility in Sunderland will be merged into a single line. The remaining line is expected to run at full capacity.

While Nissan has indicated that manufacturing roles are not currently expected to be affected, uncertainty remains over the potential impact on administrative and support staff.

Nissan employs approximately 9,300 people across Europe, with around 6,000 based at its Sunderland plant-the largest car manufacturing site in the UK. In addition to Sunderland, the company maintains a technical centre in Cranfield and a vehicle design facility in London.

The announcement marks the second major round of job cuts by Nissan in less than a year. In May 2025, the company revealed plans to shut seven factories worldwide and reduce its global workforce by 20,000 employees as part of a sweeping cost-cutting strategy.

Despite reassurances regarding factory roles, industry analysts note that consolidation of production lines often signals deeper structural changes. Questions remain about how the cuts will be distributed geographically and which departments will bear the brunt of the reductions.

The restructuring comes at a time of intensifying competition, rising production costs, and a complex transition toward electric vehicles, factors that have forced many automakers to rethink their operational models.

Further details on the UK-specific impact are expected in the coming months, as consultations with employees and unions continue.