HP cutting at least 850 jobs in Germany

US computer giant Hewlett-Packard said Friday it was closing its enterprise software operation in Ruesselsheim, Germany, in a move eliminating at least 850 jobs.

The German facility employs some 1,100 people, but HP said 250 "will have the opportunity to transfer to HP partners or clients."

The California firm, the largest maker of personal computers, said 850 positions will be eliminated "due to efficiency gains, local partner outsourcing and consolidation with other HP global service delivery hubs."

The company said it submitted its plan to the German Supervisory Board, and expects to close the site by the end of October.

Last year, Hewlett-Packard said a major restructuring program will eliminate some 29,000 positions worldwide.

The cuts are part of an effort by chairman and chief executive Meg Whitman to turn around the giant hurt by a shift away from traditional PCs.