There have been massive layoffs at Trixter, Munich. Most of the artists if not all have been shown the door over night and out of the blue. So I was told. So it was unclear if the studio would be going on, especially because without artists no new projects could be tackled without rehiring all the talent. So I reached out to Trixter and Cinesite for more information.
As I was told be representatives of Trixter, the studio refutes the claim that „most or almost all artists“ have been laid off: „This is inaccurate. The majority of the team remains in place and is working on ongoing projects. We have no plans to relocate“
Here is the statement of Trixter, that reached me at 8.00 p.m. this evening here in Germany.
27.11.2025, Munich
Trixter has implemented a strategic restructuring that includes the downsizing of select teams to enhance operational efficiency and long-term stability in response to the current market contraction impacting the global visual effects (VFX) industry.
The company is focused on delivering high-quality visual effects and remains an active, fully operational studio, dedicated to its client and project commitments now and into the future.
As part of the Cinesite Group, this proactive realignment ensures Trixter is well-positioned to navigate industry-wide shifts. “This restructuring is a decisive step that aligns with broader efforts across the Cinesite Group to fortify long-term stability for all studios,” said Christina Caspers, Trixter Managing Director. “While it was a difficult decision, and we deeply value the contributions of every individual impacted, establishing a more agile team gives us a clear pathway to navigate current industry conditions. We are positioning Trixter to be ready for growth as the market inevitably expands again.”
Trixter remains active and fully operational, maintaining current productions and preparing for future projects.
Still this means another big blow towards the German animation and vfx community after Scanline Munichs exited to India and Vancouver earlier this year. It will be interesting to see the reaction of the other players, funding institutions, politicians, scho0ls and producers especially here in Germany to these ongoing events and the dramatic changing landscape of the vfx industry here and abroad.
I will reach out to some and try to find out more. If you have more information you want to share, reach out to me. My email is Johannes.wolters@indac.org
All the best to the former Trixter artists, this will be a tough and sad christmas to all of you. I hope you will find new projects and work soon.
Johannes