Nike Inc. is to shed 5% of its 35,000 strong global workforce.

World leading sportswear manufacturer Nike, has announced it is to cut 1,750 jobs, approximately 5% of its workforce, with approximately 500 to go at its world headquarters in Oregan, USA.

The company began a global workforce review in February, with the aims of enhancing consumer focus, speeding up decision making and creating a stronger organisational structure for the future. During the process, all stages of the supply chain – from the sourcing base through to the retail stores – were reviewed to ensure the consumer experience was at its optimum.

Mark Parker, CEO and President of Nike Inc. said: “We remain a growth company and we know these changes have created a stronger organisation that will enable us to invest in our most significant opportunities.

“However, the decision to reduce our workforce has been a difficult and challenging one as it affects our colleagues, teammates and friends.”

Nike has confirmed that all departing employees will receive a “robust and enhanced severance.” Union bodies have been consulted in accordance with legal requirements.