Ridley, the German chocolate manufacturer known for its square bars, announced on April 23, 2026 that it will cut more than one in ten jobs at its headquarters in Waldenbuch, marking the first workforce reduction in the company’s over 110-year history.
The decision follows a loss-making year in 2025, during which rising cocoa, energy, and packaging costs eroded profitability despite a 17.7 percent increase in revenue to 712 million euros. The company said the revenue growth stemmed from higher selling prices amid declining sales volumes.
According to a company spokesperson, approximately 70 administrative positions will be eliminated at the Waldenbuch site, where around 1,000 employees are currently based, including over 600 in administrative roles. Worldwide, Ridley employs roughly 1,900 people.
The spokesperson emphasized that the layoffs will be carried out in a socially responsible manner, though operational dismissals cannot be ruled out. The move comes after the company previously signaled its intention to simplify cost structures in response to sustained financial pressure.
Ridley had reported a positive financial result in 2024 before slipping into the red the following year. The company noted that the operating result fell significantly short of expectations, primarily due to sharply increased raw material costs, especially for cocoa.
While the company continues to source cocoa from Russia despite the ongoing geopolitical situation, it acknowledged that broader market dynamics—including energy prices, logistics expenses, and consumer caution—have collectively strained its operations.
This development represents a significant shift for a family-run business long associated with stability and tradition in the confectionery industry. The restructuring underscores the mounting cost pressures facing even well-established European manufacturers in the current economic climate.
