As 2025 unfolds, the trend of workforce reductions persists across various industries. High-profile companies including Boeing, Meta, Microsoft, and BP are amongst those announcing further layoffs. This ongoing pattern follows significant cuts in previous years, driven by technological advancements and strategic realignments.
Boeing has announced plans to cut 400 jobs from its moon rocket program, citing delays and rising costs associated with NASA’s Artemis missions. These reductions are part of a broader effort to realign resources amidst shifting program timelines.
Meta is set to eliminate 5% of its workforce, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasizing a focus on “performance management” and addressing underperformers within the company. Since 2022, Meta has already seen over 21,000 layoffs, reflecting a strategic shift towards optimizing productivity.
Microsoft has confirmed impending layoffs, focusing on underperforming employees. While specific numbers remain undisclosed, the company asserts its commitment to high performance and continuous employee development.
BP plans substantial cuts, amounting to around 5% of its global workforce, part of a strategy to simplify operations and enhance competitiveness. This includes reducing 4,700 staff positions and 3,000 contractors worldwide as they work towards cost efficiency and improved resilience.
Kohl’s, the department store chain, is reducing its corporate workforce by 10% in a bid to increase efficiencies and profitability. These cuts come in conjunction with the closure of 27 underperforming stores across 15 states.
CNN will cut around 200 jobs as the network pivots towards a digital-first strategy. The reallocation of resources aims to secure its future as a leading news organization, focusing on digital platforms amid shifting viewer habits.
Starbucks is also planning layoffs as part of a broader corporate restructuring initiative. The company aims to optimize its support teams and intends to inform affected employees by March.
Stripe, a prominent payments platform, is cutting 300 employees, primarily within its product, engineering, and operations sectors, as it continues to manage its expansive workforce.
The technology and finance sectors continue to experience substantial layoffs. For instance, BlackRock, the investment management firm, is planning to cut 1% of its workforce. Meanwhile, Bridgewater Associates has reduced its staff by 7% to maintain streamlined operations.
In the media sector, The Washington Post is cutting less than 4% of its non-newsroom workforce in an effort to realign its business operations without affecting its newsroom capabilities.
Adidas, despite recent financial successes, intends to cut up to 500 jobs at its German headquarters as it realigns its operational model. Similarly, Estée Lauder plans significant job cuts, targeting up to 7,000 positions as part of a long-term restructuring strategy.
Salesforce, despite robust financial performance, is reducing its workforce by over 1,000, while continuing to invest in AI-driven product developments. Workday is also trimming 8.5% of its workforce, shifting focus towards artificial intelligence initiatives.
Sonos, an audio equipment company, plans to streamline its organizational structure, leading to around 200 job cuts. This move follows internal evaluations of project commitments and operational layers.
The wave of layoffs across various industries in 2025 underscores a period of adjustment and transformation. Companies are realigning their resources and focusing on technological advancements to enhance efficiency and maintain competitiveness. This trend suggests a continued shift towards a more digital and AI-centric workforce in the coming years.
