British American Tobacco (BAT) is eliminating 9,000 positions globally, representing approximately 20% of its total workforce, as part of a sweeping cost-reduction program.
The restructuring includes 5,500 direct job cuts and the outsourcing of additional roles, marking a decisive shift in the company's operational footprint.
The move underscores the intensifying pressure on traditional tobacco manufacturers as consumer demand for combustible cigarettes continues to erode.
BAT, which owns major brands including Lucky Strike and Dunhill, is accelerating its pivot toward reduced-risk products and alternative nicotine delivery systems.
The workforce reduction is designed to streamline operations and free up capital for investment in these growth areas.
This announcement represents a significant escalation in BAT's ongoing restructuring efforts.