Nissan's uncertain path: Potential Toyota alliance looms
The future of Nissan does not look promising. After the breakdown of talks with Honda in February, the brand found itself against the wall. Local media suggest that a rescue might come from Toyota.
On May 17, the Japanese daily "Mainichi" reported on discussions between Nissan and Toyota. According to Japanese media, Toyota's executive director contacted Nissan representatives as early as February, right after the collapse of the agreement with Honda.
"Mainichi" does not reveal its sources, and representatives of Nissan and Toyota remain silent on the matter. However, if the reports are confirmed, it will hardly come as a surprise. Toyota has a rich history of acquiring minority stakes in other Japanese brands such as Subaru, Suzuki, and Isuzu.
Nissan definitely needs support. On April 1, the company changed its leader - Ivan Espinosa replaced Makoto Uchida. The new president quickly sprang into action, announcing an aggressive restructuring program, including laying off nearly 22,000 people.
He emphasized, however, that he would not rush into hasty partnerships. Reviving Nissan from within is the highest priority, he added. On the topic of potential mergers, he explained that he is interested in the right partner, not just any partner.
Espinosa said Nissan foresees many cooperation possibilities, including a rapprochement with Honda. Others might include integration, capital investments, or spin-offs of business units, said Espinosa.
