Unilever suspends hiring at all levels citing Iran war impact

March 31, 2026 (MLN): Consumer goods giant Unilever, the maker of Dove soap, has introduced a global hiring freeze across all levels, which will last at least three months, citing the ongoing Middle East conflict as a key factor.

The London-based company said the freeze, effective immediately, is a precaution against the “significant challenges” posed by the month-long Iran war, as reported by Reuters.

Companies worldwide, from airlines to retailers, are taking measures to mitigate disruptions caused by the conflict, which has severely impacted global trade and led to historic spikes in energy prices.

Fabian Garcia, head of Unilever’s personal care division, wrote in the memo that macroeconomic and geopolitical pressures, particularly the Middle East tensions, are expected to affect business operations over the coming months.

Unilever, which produces most of its goods locally but relies on energy-intensive raw materials like chemicals, food, and packaging, said in a statement that the recruitment pause is temporary and the company will adjust its plans as conditions change.

The hiring freeze comes on top of an ongoing cost-cutting initiative launched in 2024 aimed at saving about €800 million ($917 million) over three years, which is expected to impact roughly 7,500 office-based roles. Unilever’s workforce has already been reduced from around 149,000 employees in 2020 to 96,000 today.

The company has faced challenges in boosting sales volumes since the Covid-19 pandemic and is currently negotiating the sale of its foods business to McCormick & Company. Under the proposed deal, Unilever shareholders would retain a majority stake in the combined entity, signaling a major restructuring under CEO Fernando Fernandez.

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