RTL Deutschland has officially confirmed plans to eliminate around 600 positions as part of a substantial organizational overhaul. This announcement follows reports that emerged yesterday regarding widespread redundancies within the German media conglomerate. The company stated that these actions are intended to sharpen its strategic focus on streaming, particularly with RTL+, which continues to demonstrate robust growth and is projected to achieve profitability by 2026.

RTL Deutschland characterized the reductions as being implemented in a “socially responsible” manner, utilizing a severance program and phased-retirement options in collaboration with works councils. This decision is influenced by the rapidly evolving television landscape. According to the broadcaster, linear TV advertising revenues in Germany have decreased by over 20% since 2019, while RTL+ has expanded from 800,000 paying subscribers in 2019 to over 6.6 million by the end of September 2025. The company noted that usage, subscriber numbers, and revenues are “continuing to grow dynamically.”

CEO Stephan Schmitter emphasized that the restructuring is crucial to maintain the organization's competitiveness amidst structural and economic challenges. “The media market is undergoing profound change,” he said. “To remain successful and competitive in the long term, we are aligning RTL Deutschland even more consistently with the streaming business. With the dynamic growth of RTL+ and the planned acquisition of Sky, we have a strong foundation for future success.”

Schmitter assured that content and editorial responsibility would remain central to the business, supported by focused investment in entertainment, sport, news, and emerging technologies. However, he acknowledged the significance of the changes: “These measures are far-reaching, but absolutely necessary and will strengthen RTL Deutschland’s position in light of structural and economic challenges.”

RTL Deutschland employs approximately 7,500 individuals across various platforms, including TV, streaming, print, digital, radio, and podcast brands like RTL, VOX, ntv, GEO, and Stern. The group indicated that all areas of the organization will be affected by the restructuring as it transitions towards a streaming-centric future.