In Europe and Japan, the implementation of structural reforms resulted in significant personnel reductions. In contrast, in the Asia–Pacific region (i.e., excluding Japan), the recovery and subsequent expansion of production levels led to personnel increases at production bases. As a consequence, as of March 31, 2011, the total number of employees in the Sony Group was approximately 168,200, essentially level with the previous fiscal year-end.

Sony Corporation's headcount peaked at 23,000 in 1993, after which it remained fairly consistent at approximately 17,000. As of March 31, 2011, Sony Corporation's headcount was approximately 16,000.