Sony to cut 6% of workforce globally

Sony will cut 10,000 jobs according to a statement from the company this morning.

The company's new boss, Kazuo Hirai, has been under pressure to make changes to make it more profitable since his appointment at the beginning of February.

Sony will focus it's efforts on the digital imaging (cameras), games and mobile markets.

"Sony is positioning digital imaging, game and mobile as the three main focus areas of its electronics business and plans to concentrate investment and technology development resources in these areas. By growing these three businesses, Sony aims to generate approximately 70% of total sales and 85% of operating income for the entire electronics business from these categories by FY14," the statement said.

Sony confirmed it will cut the aforementioned jobs before March 2013.

With respect to gaming specifically, the statement said focusing on this market would "form the foundations on which Sony will target further sales and profit expansion in the game business. The Company also aims to increase sales by enriching its catalog of downloadable game titles and subscription services available through the PSN platform, and also by expanding the lineup of PlayStation®Suite compatible devices and content."

More importantly for us though, the statement said there will be more focus on the emerging markets, with Sony generating "1.8 trillion yen through sales of electronics products in emerging markets", that's nearly £14 billion GBP.

"By implementing a rapid decision-making approach that draws on the strengths of the entire Sony Group as "One Sony", Sony aims to revitalize and grow the electronics business to generate new value, while further strengthening the stable business foundations of the Entertainment and Financial Service businesses."