Bentley Reports Seventh Year of Profitability Amid Strategic Shift to EVs and Staff Reductions

Brickinfo News Agency – Bentley Motors has recorded its seventh consecutive year of profitability, maintaining a steady financial performance despite a 1% dip in revenue to €2.6 billion. The British luxury automaker is currently navigating a complex transition toward electrification, balancing significant infrastructure investments at its Pyms Lane site with a challenging global market that has led to a proposed reduction of approximately 275 positions within the organization.

The reported operating profit of €216 million for 2025 reflects an operating return on sales of 8.3%. This figure was notably impacted by several external factors, including the Volkswagen Group’s decision to discontinue a D-segment platform, U.S. tariff pressures, and unfavorable foreign exchange rates. Despite these hurdles, Bentley’s focus on high-margin derivatives and Mulliner bespoke personalization helped offset a 5% decline in total customer deliveries, which was felt most acutely in the Chinese market.

Product demand remains centered on the Bentayga SUV, which continues as the brand’s best-selling model, further bolstered by the arrival of the Bentayga Speed in late 2025. The company also highlighted the introduction of the fourth-generation Continental GT and Flying Spur, both utilizing new V8 hybrid powertrains. Additionally, the recent debut of the Supersports model in New York has seen high customer interest, with the initial allocation already fully committed ahead of deliveries scheduled for later this year.

To maintain long-term competitiveness during this transition, Bentley has initiated a colleague consultation programme that may result in the removal of 275 roles. This adjustment primarily affects management, agency, and non-manufacturing staff. Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Chairman and CEO, addressed the necessity of these changes alongside the company’s aggressive investment in its UK facilities, including the near-completion of the A1 building for Battery-Powered Electric Vehicle (BEV) assembly.

“2025 was a pivotal year for Bentley as we continue our preparation of the next generation of Bentleys including our upcoming all-electric model,” stated Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser. “We are making some difficult decisions to ensure the long-term competitiveness of the business, including an organisational adjustment potentially impacting approximately 275 positions. I want to express my sincere appreciation to those affected – we are committed to supporting each individual with care, guidance and assistance throughout this transition.”

Axel Dewitz, Board Member for Finance and IT, noted that the underlying business remains resilient despite non-recurring accounting impacts. He emphasized that the current financial foundation allows Bentley to continue self-funding its Beyond100+ strategy. This includes the ongoing transformation of the Crewe factory into a carbon-neutral site and the upcoming opening of a new Paint Shop later this year, which will offer nearly 100 individual color options to meet the growing demand for customization.