Camel maker BAT warns of job cuts ahead

HOLLY WILLIAMS

LUCKY Strike and Camel cigarette maker British American Tobacco (BAT) has warned of possible job losses as it revealed an overhaul of its regional structure and business divisions.

The group said the plans will see the number of regions cut from four to three – merging the European business with the Americas division – while it will reduce its business units from 16 to 12, with changes taking effect from April.

further £100m in lost sales, with much of that impact being felt in London.

“The situation is entirely avoidable but provides yet another pressure for a sector contending with soaring energy costs, workforce challenges and dampening consumer confidence. Hospitality continues to suffer as collateral damage as a result of this dispute, so it’s vital that all parties reach an agreement as soon as possible to prevent unnecessary damage to businesses at this increasingly challenging time,” she added.

It is currently consulting with affected staff and said there may be job losses as a result of the restructure, but declined to give more details.

BAT, which employs more than 52,000 people worldwide, said the consultation is taking place with affected staff at various levels, including senior management.

BAT also said it would ramp up the company’s ongoing “market exit plans” under the restructure, signalling further moves to pull out of certain countries, having already halted operations in Myanmar, Iran and Russia in recent years. PA