 The Megane has helped revitalise Renault's fortunes |
French car maker Renault has said it plans to recruit 10,000 new employees next year in order to boost its international expansion. The company said half the new recruits would fill technical and managerial roles, while the remainder would man the production lines.
About half the new jobs will be created in France.
Renault added that it expected its French car dealership network to take on a further 4,000 staff next year.
On the up
Renault said the recruitment drive would help it "support the success of its product range and pursue its international development."
"Fast technological development and heightened competition within the automobile industry mean the company must find the most talented people."
Renault, Europe's fourth-biggest carmaker, has prospered in recent months thanks to cost cuts and strong sales of its popular Megane model.
The firm has also benefited from a strong performance by its Japanese partner Nissan, in which it holds a 44% stake.
Renault reported a 29% jump in profits for the first half of 2004, while sales climbed 11%.
The company's staffing policies last hit the headlines in 1997, when it provoked outrage by unexpectedly closing down its factory in Vilvoorde, Belgium, at the cost of some 3,000 jobs.
The move prompted the European Union to introduce rules forcing employers to consult with staff on all strategic decisions affecting jobs.
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