RTL Deutschland to cut 500 jobs following Sky Deutschland acquisition

RTL Deutschland has announced plans to cut approximately 500 jobs by the end of 2027 following its acquisition of Sky Deutschland. The restructuring aims to achieve annual synergies of 250 million euros over a three-year period, primarily through the optimization of content and operational costs.

The workforce reductions are expected to be implemented largely in 2026. About 150 of these positions will be eliminated through the non-renewal of expiring contracts and by leaving vacancies unfilled, while the remaining cuts will involve planned redundancies as part of the company's reorganization.

This move follows the 'Shift 2026' program, which saw the elimination of over 600 positions in the first quarter of 2026. Combined, these measures represent a total reduction of more than 1,100 jobs. The integration of Sky Deutschland into the RTL Group, which was finalized following unconditional approval from the European Commission, brings together streaming services such as RTL+, Sky, and WOW, alongside major sports broadcasting rights.