The cessation of production of Pioneer’s plasma screens casts an uncertain future over Pioneer’s manufacturing plants in the UK and US, while a policy of early retirement programs and streamlining of sales forces will also shrink staff numbers.

Pioneer has already reduced by 5,900 the number of its employees to 36,000 between March and December, and is forecasting a record net loss for the 2009 fiscal year.

Further shuffling will include the integration of Pioneer’s network of production facilities overseas - downsizing its production facilities by 30% - and a decrease in sales forces as the group shifts its attention to home electronics and sound.

In addition, Pioneer says it will review administrative and R&D work forces in line with the new business structure.

www.pioneer.co.uk