Major Companies Announce Layoffs in 2025
In 2025, several leading global companies across various industries have announced significant layoffs as part of their cost-cutting and restructuring efforts. Below is a summary of 20 companies that have recently reduced their workforce:
Dell Technologies
Dell Technologies confirmed the layoff of approximately 12,000 employees, amounting to 10% of its global workforce.
- This decision was driven by the need to streamline operations and boost innovation.
Block (formerly Square)
Block, the financial technology firm led by Jack Dorsey, laid off 931 workers, including 240 remote employees in California.
- The job cuts affected positions such as business analysts, data engineers, and software engineers.
Siemens
Siemens announced plans to cut more than 6,000 jobs in its automation and electric vehicle charging divisions.
- This move aligns with a strategic restructuring to focus on emerging technologies.
Blue Origin
Jeff Bezos’ space venture, Blue Origin, reduced its workforce by 10%, impacting engineering, research and development, and program management roles.
- The layoffs were part of a broader effort to streamline operations and reduce costs.
Chevron
Energy giant Chevron implemented workforce reductions in response to fluctuating oil prices and operational restructuring.
- The company is adapting to market volatility while aiming for long-term sustainability.
Estée Lauder
Cosmetics leader Estée Lauder laid off employees as part of a cost-cutting strategy amid changing consumer demands.
- This decision follows industry-wide challenges in the beauty and skincare sector.
JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase, one of the largest financial institutions, reduced its workforce due to economic pressures and digital transformation.
- The company is shifting resources toward automated banking solutions.
Kohl’s
Retail giant Kohl’s announced job cuts as part of its effort to boost efficiency and respond to declining sales.
- The company is restructuring store operations to adapt to e-commerce growth.
Meta Platforms
Meta, formerly Facebook, laid off employees as it repositions itself for growth in artificial intelligence and the metaverse.
- The layoffs targeted non-core business areas to optimize spending.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines reduced staff numbers in response to reduced travel demand and financial struggles in the aviation sector.
- The company is focusing on cost efficiency while maintaining service quality.
Workday
Software company Workday announced 1,750 job cuts, about 8.5% of its global workforce.
- The layoffs were due to the rising demand for AI-based automation and a shift in corporate priorities.
Microsoft
Microsoft targeted specific job functions that no longer align with its AI-focused strategy, leading to widespread layoffs.
- The company is investing heavily in cloud computing and AI development.
Amazon
Amazon confirmed workforce reductions across multiple departments as part of an efficiency-driven restructuring.
- The company is optimizing operations while expanding automated fulfillment centers.
The Washington Post
The Washington Post cut jobs as part of its transition to a more digital-focused news platform.
- These changes come amid shifts in media consumption trends.
BlackRock
Investment firm BlackRock announced workforce reductions to enhance operational efficiency and respond to financial market changes.
- The layoffs mainly affected back-office roles and support functions.
Akzo Nobel
Paints and coatings manufacturer Akzo Nobel eliminated 2,200 jobs and closed five manufacturing plants to achieve cost savings of over €150 million.
- The move is part of a global restructuring strategy.
Adidas
Sportswear brand Adidas announced 500 job cuts at its global headquarters to reduce expenses and increase profitability.
- The decision follows a period of financial challenges in the retail sector.
Walgreens
Retail pharmacy chain Walgreens planned layoffs to align operations with evolving healthcare trends and cost-saving measures.
- The company is focusing on pharmacy automation and digital health services.
Joann Fabrics
Joann Fabrics announced workforce reductions to address financial struggles and streamline retail operations.
- The company has been impacted by declining demand for traditional craft and sewing supplies.
Brightcove
After being acquired by Bending Spoons, video streaming company Brightcove laid off 198 employees, representing 33% of its U.S. workforce.
- The layoffs were part of a broader effort to restructure and reposition the business.
These widespread layoffs in 2025 reflect broader economic shifts, including the rise of automation, changing consumer behavior, and financial pressures.
- Companies are adapting their business models to remain competitive in an evolving market.
- While job losses create short-term challenges, these changes may pave the way for future innovation and efficiency.
