On Wednesday (28 Feb), video game company Electronic Arts (EA) announced that it will lay off 5% of its workforce.
The announcement comes as part of plans to stop development on some games.
Speaking to employees, EA CEO Andrew Wilson said the company is streamlining its operations to deliver deeper and more connected experiences for fans worldwide.
In an open letter to employees posted on 28 Feb, Mr Wilson revealed news of the layoffs, which would affect 5% of the workforce.
CNBC reports that EA has about 13,400 workers as of March 2023. Based on this figure, the layoffs would impact about 670 employees.
“I understand this will create uncertainty and be challenging for many who have worked with such dedication and passion and have made important contributions to our company,” Mr Wilson said.
Source: Reuters via CTech
He stated that the company will prioritise helping those affected find new roles and transition them onto other projects.
“Where that’s not possible, we will support and work with each colleague with the utmost attention, care, and respect,” he added.
Mr Wilson said the move comes amidst “accelerating industry transformation” where users’ needs and motivations have changed significantly.
“Fans are increasingly engaging with the largest IP, and looking to us for broader experiences where they can play, watch, create content, and forge deeper connections,” he said.
Given how and where the company is working, Mr Wilson said EA will continue optimising its global real estate portfolio in a way that best supports its business.
Another part of the strategic plans will involve the sunsetting of some games.
Source: Bloomberg
“We are also sunsetting games and moving away from development of future licensed IP that we do not believe will be successful in our changing industry,” Mr Wilson said.
He shared that this will help the company drive creativity, accelerate innovation, and double down on its biggest opportunities. These include their owned IP, sports, and massive online communities.
EA will additionally be streamlining company operations to “deliver deeper, more connected experiences for fans everywhere” to build community, shape culture, and grow their fandoms.
As of yet, it is uncertain if the layoffs will affect employees in Singapore.
Also read: Sony, PropertyGuru & Expedia announce layoffs affecting more than 2,000 staff globally
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Featured image adapted from Wikipedia.
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