Trump’s tariffs hit Swarovski Optik: 40 employees have to leave

The reason is the significantly increased costs as well as new ones Export tariffs for the important US market which now accounts for around 45 percent of total sales.

Massive cost pressure

“At the same time, the company is under massive cost pressure, is confronted with technological upheavals, an aging customer structure and increasing competition from digital providers,” it said in a release. These factors have led to a significant increase in recent years burden on the earnings situation.

Swarovski Optik based in Absam is a leading manufacturer of long-range optics (binoculars, rifle scopes, telescopes) and employs 1,100 people worldwide. Last year there were shortages 200 million euros implemented, a slight increase compared to 2024.

The Absam location, where more than 90 percent of the world’s employees work, will remain the heart of Swarovski Optik in the future, it continues. This underlines the recent investments of around 10 million euros in a new logistics center.

“The upcoming process and the associated measure of having to cut employees is unfortunately unavoidable in order to secure our economic basis and thus the future of the company in the long term,” says Johannes OberdannerCEO of Swarovski Optik. The transformation program initiated is intended to consolidate its position as a leading provider in the premium segment of sports optics.

Job cuts also in Wattens

First In November 2025, the crystal company Swarovski announced the dismantling of around 400 jobs at its headquarters in Wattens. The majority of the reductions will occur through retirements and voluntary departures. The company announced at the beginning of January that a maximum of 80 employees would be laid off.