Key highlights
- Nissan is considering selling its global headquarters in Yokohama as part of a broader asset reduction plan to recover from financial losses.
- The building is estimated to be worth over 100 billion yen ($700 million), and Nissan may continue using it on lease after the sale.
- The company is undergoing extensive restructuring, including closing seven factories, cutting 20,000 jobs, and eliminating vehicle platforms.
Nissan is reportedly considering selling its global headquarters in Yokohama, Japan, as part of a major cost-cutting initiative aimed at stabilizing its financial position. The automaker, which moved its base from Tokyo to Yokohama in 2009, has been facing significant financial challenges, prompting a series of restructuring measures to ensure long-term survival2.
Why Is Nissan selling its headquarters?
The Yokohama headquarters, located near the Katabira River, is estimated to be worth over 100 billion yen ($700 million). Reports suggest that Nissan may continue using the facility on lease from its new owner, similar to McLaren’s sale-and-leaseback strategy for its Woking headquarters2.
The decision to sell the headquarters is part of a larger asset reduction plan, which includes:
- Shutting down seven factories, including Oppama and Shonan plants.
- Cutting 20,000 jobs globally to reduce operational costs.
- Eliminating six vehicle platforms, leaving only seven in the lineup.
- Reassigning 3,000 R&D employees to focus on cost-cutting initiatives.
Failed merger talks and Nissan survival strategy
Nissan’s financial troubles were exacerbated by failed merger talks with Honda, which could have provided stability and shared resources. Instead, Nissan is now strengthening its partnership with Mitsubishi and badge-engineering models with Renault to streamline production2.
Market impact and future prospects
Despite the restructuring, Nissan remains committed to developing new models, including an all-new Skyline, a global C-SUV, and an Infiniti compact SUV. The company is also reducing parts complexity by 70%, aiming for greater efficiency and profitability by fiscal year 2026.
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