Amazon to lay off 14,000 employees amid restructuring drive

Web Desk: The world’s largest e-commerce company, Amazon, has announced plans to lay off 14,000 employees as part of its ongoing restructuring efforts.

According to the BBC, Amazon confirmed on Tuesday that it will be eliminating around 14,000 positions within its corporate sector.

The company said the decision stems from the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI), which has created the need for a leaner and more efficient organizational structure to better seize new opportunities.

Earlier reports had suggested that Amazon might cut as many as 30,000 jobs.

In a note addressed to employees, Beth Galetti, Amazon’s Senior Vice President, said the move aims to strengthen the company and redirect resources toward areas that are more vital for its present and future growth.

She wrote that “artificial intelligence is driving the biggest transformation since the advent of the internet,” and has accelerated innovation and productivity to unprecedented levels. As a result, Amazon must evolve into a more empowered structure to serve its customers and business with greater speed and efficiency.

The note further stated that Amazon is working to support employees affected by the layoffs. Wherever possible, they will be offered new roles within the company, while others will receive special severance packages and assistance.

It is worth noting that Amazon currently employs more than 1.5 million people across its global offices and warehouses.