caLogo

SALO, FINLAND — Nokia plans to close operations in three countries and lay off nearly 19% of its workers by the end of next year as it tries to reduce its enormous red ink.

Nokia is getting crushed in the fast-growing smartphone market, where its first-quarter share came in well behind leaders Samsung and Apple.

The cellphone maker plans to close its research centers in Ulm, Germany; Burnaby, Canada; and a handset manufacturing facility in Salo, Finland. The cuts will include nearly 10,000 workers around the world.

Nokia is coming off $1.2 billion in losses in its first quarter on a 29% drop in sales.

“These planned reductions are a difficult consequence of the intended actions we believe we must take to ensure Nokia’s long-term competitive strength,” said Stephen Elop, Nokia's chief executive, in a statement. “We do not make plans that may impact our employees lightly, and as a company we will work tirelessly to ensure that those at risk are offered the support, options and advice necessary to find new opportunities.”

Submit to FacebookSubmit to Google PlusSubmit to TwitterSubmit to LinkedInPrint Article
Don't have an account yet? Register Now!

Sign in to your account