Dutch brewing giant Heineken announced plans to cut up to 6,000 jobs over the next two years amid “challenging market conditions” and falling beer volumes.
The move is part of a cost-saving push to boost productivity across the company.CEO Dolf van den Brink, who is stepping down after nearly six years, said, “We remain prudent in our near-term expectations for beer market conditions,” while emphasizing his focus on leaving Heineken strong for the future.
Investors reacted positively, with shares climbing roughly three percent in early trading.Heineken employs around 87,000 people globally. CFO Harold van den Broek indicated Europe will be a key focus for the job reductions, reflecting tough operating conditions in the region.
In 2025, global beer volumes fell 2.4 percent, with Europe and the Americas hardest hit. Total sales dropped to €34.4 billion ($41 billion), though net profit rose 4.9 percent to €2.7 billion after adjusting for currency swings.The company projects 2–6 percent organic operating profit growth in 2026.
