Mass Layoffs Continue in 2025 as Major Companies Restructure
New Stardom Newsroom
The corporate layoff wave that started in 2022 isn’t over. In the first weeks of 2025, some of the world’s biggest companies—Meta, CNN, Microsoft, Adidas, Shell, Unilever, KLM, and more—have announced job cuts affecting thousands of workers. According to a Business Insider report, layoffs have impacted industries ranging from tech to media, oil, and retail.
Unlike past workforce reductions caused by pandemic-related economic downturns, these layoffs point to something else. Media companies are racing to adapt to digital, tech giants are reshaping their workforces to focus on AI, and corporations across industries are reducing costs in response to shifting market conditions.
While some companies are strategically restructuring, others are cutting jobs as part of broader cost-saving efforts—leaving workers uncertain about job security in 2025.
CNN Slashes 200 Jobs as It Shifts to Digital
Photo Credits: Jopwell Collection
CNN has confirmed that 200 employees, primarily in TV-focused roles, will be laid off, as reported by the Associated Press, as the company pushes toward a digital-first strategy. The move is part of a larger transformation under CEO Mark Thompson, who has outlined plans for CNN to shift away from its traditional reliance on television.
CNN has already allocated $70 million toward digital expansion, with major investments in its website, streaming products, and subscription-based content models. While some newsroom positions are being eliminated, new digital-focused roles are being created to strengthen CNN’s streaming and online news presence.
“This is about future-proofing the organization,” Thompson said in an internal memo, adding that CNN must move quickly to capture digital audiences that are consuming news in new ways.
Meta’s Performance-Based Layoffs: The Harsh New Normal in Tech
Tech layoffs are no longer just about cutting costs. Meta’s latest job cuts are targeting underperforming employees in what CEO Mark Zuckerberg described as a performance-based shake-up.
According to an internal memo obtained by The Verge, Meta will let go of 5% of its workforce in early February, affecting thousands of employees who failed to meet performance standards. Unlike past layoffs, where struggling workers were given a year to improve, this round is expected to be swift and final.
Meta has already laid off over 21,000 employees since 2022, and this latest move shows that tech giants are no longer hesitating to eliminate roles that don’t align with their future priorities. AI, smart devices, and immersive computing platforms are the company’s focus—and that’s where hiring efforts will be concentrated moving forward.
Shell to Cut 20% of Its Workforce
Oil giant Shell is cutting 20% of its workforce as it pushes for greater efficiency and cost reduction. The move comes as CEO Wael Sawan attempts to save between $2 billion and $3 billion by the end of 2025.
The layoffs will primarily impact employees in Shell’s exploration and development divisions, particularly in Houston and The Hague. Reports suggest some UK-based roles will also be affected.
For Shell, this marks a strategic restructuring rather than just a financial necessity. The company is shifting resources toward higher-margin operations, focusing on shareholder returns and streamlining its global energy portfolio.
Unilever to Cut 1,700 Jobs, Spin Off Ice Cream Division
Consumer goods giant Unilever has confirmed plans to cut 1,700 office jobs in Europe as part of a company-wide productivity program aimed at saving €800 million over three years.
Originally, Unilever planned 3,200 job cuts but scaled back the figure after deciding to spin off its ice cream division (which includes Ben & Jerry’s and Magnum). Around 1,000 new roles will be created in the ice cream unit, meaning some laid-off workers may be able to transition.
Unilever’s restructuring is part of a broader effort to focus on its most profitable brands and streamline global operations.
KLM Airlines to Cut 250 Jobs Amid Cost-Saving Push
The airline industry isn’t immune to workforce reductions. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has announced it will cut 250 office jobs as part of a broader push to increase profitability.
CEO Marjan Rintel said the cuts are necessary to improve the financial performance of KLM’s Dutch operations, with the company targeting €450 million in cost savings.
In addition to layoffs, KLM has decided to halt construction of a new headquarters and reconsider other major investments. The restructuring could impact additional roles in the coming months.
Microsoft and Adidas Also Make Workforce Cuts
Microsoft is quietly eliminating underperforming roles, similar to Meta’s strategy. Though numbers haven’t been confirmed, reports suggest Microsoft is targeting job functions that don’t align with its AI-driven focus.
Adidas has announced 500 job cuts at its global headquarters, part of a move to streamline operations and cut costs.
Akzo Nobel and Kohl’s Join the Layoff Wave
Akzo Nobel, one of the world’s largest paints and coatings companies, is cutting 2,200 jobs and closing at least five manufacturing plants in 2025. The company aims to save over €150 million annually, but further site closures are expected in 2026.
Meanwhile, retail giant Kohl’s is reducing its corporate workforce by 10%, citing weak consumer demand and underperforming stores. The company is also shutting down 27 stores and an e-commerce fulfillment center.
These layoffs aren’t just about cutting costs—they mark a fundamental shift in corporate priorities.
Tech companies are eliminating roles that don’t support AI, smart devices, or immersive computing.
Media companies are abandoning traditional TV models in favor of digital-first content.
Global corporations are restructuring operations to increase profit margins and streamline efficiency.
For professionals, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of transition. Employees in high-demand areas—AI, digital media, and sustainable energy—may find new opportunities, while traditional roles face increasing vulnerability.
Have insights on work and the future of work? Submit an opinion piece to New Stardom. Looking for English-speaking job opportunities? Subscribe to our Weekly Job Newsletter for curated roles. Love work and career books? Explore our fun workplace book collection.
New Stardom is an independent magazine covering the Future of Work, AI, and emerging job trends. Stay informed and explore more on New Stardom.
