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As manufacturers continue to navigate an uncertain operating environment amid the Trump administration's tariff policies, several companies turned to layoffs to cut costs. 

The job cuts occurred even as President Donald Trump remains adamant that tariffs will usher in a new era of U.S. manufacturing and spur companies to onshore production to the United States. 

The Institute for Supply Management’s May Purchasing Managers’ Index showed the industry in contraction last month as production remains muted and manufacturers run through much of the dwindling inventory they had ordered ahead of tariffs. More manufactures turned to layoffs as the primary measure to reduce headcount as near-term demand remains uncertain, according to ISM. 

Here are some of the major layoffs announced or confirmed in May. 

Nissan to slash 20,000 jobs over two years

Nissan Motor Co. unveiled plans for massive job cuts last month, announcing 20,000 layoffs around the globe. The automaker will also close seven plants as part of the cost-cutting plan. 

The job cuts will take place by fiscal year 2027, according to the company. Nissan provided no details on which plants would be shuttered, but said impacted job functions would include direct and indirect roles and contractual positions in manufacturing, administrative, sales and research and development.

The company also aims to streamline plant operations and cut capital expenses as it works to regain profitability by FY2026. 

Bridgestone confirms plans to lay off 658 workers in Tennessee

Tire manufacturer Bridgestone Americas confirmed plans to lay off 658 workers in La Vergne, Tennessee, beginning July 31. The company announced plans to shutter the La Vergne factory in January as it shifts operations to another plant in Morrison, Tennessee. 

Bridgestone cited the factory's age and high output costs as reasons for the closure. The company has undergone multiple rounds of layoffs or other staff reductions over the past year — Bridgestone laid off 118 workers in Des Moines, Iowa last summer, and also offered buyouts to workers at the plant in January amid falling tractor demand. 

Serta to lay off 180 in California

Mattress maker Serta Simmons Bedding plans to lay off 180 workers from its factory in Moreno Valley, California, according to a May 6 Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification. The layoffs will begin July 5, according to the notice.