Bertelsmann CEO Thomas Rabe defended the planned reduction of approximately 500 positions across RTL Germany and Sky, while also announcing further acquisition plans. Speaking to the “Handelsblatt”, Rabe stated that the job cuts are necessary to eliminate redundant structures in Cologne and Munich following the takeover of Sky Germany.
The Group CEO acknowledged that the number of roles affected-500-is significant, but reaffirmed that the savings are essential for removing duplication and fostering an even more competitive enterprise. “We are not cutting into the substance here,” he asserted. The implementation of these staffing changes is expected to be handled meticulously and in a socially responsible manner, and the company is currently negotiating the details with employee representatives.
Rabe also previewed future, larger transactions. Bertelsmann is continuing its search for one or two strategic acquisitions and noted that a concrete development in this area might materialize this year. The primary target for such a purchase is the French television network M6, which belongs to the RTL Group. Bertelsmann is seeking a solution for M6 that allows the segment to scale further, mirroring the strategies successfully implemented at RTL Germany and Sky. This scaling capability, Rabe emphasized, is crucial for maintaining competitiveness against major US platforms.
This year, Bertelsmann has already completed two major transactions: the acquisition of Sky Germany and the integration of the music companies BMG and Concord. The Group plans further growth through the merger of the Brazilian educational providers Afya and YDUQS. Following these developments, Rabe projects the Group’s annual revenue to reach 23 billion euros, with an operating result exceeding four billion euros.
