Amazon plans more than 18,000 job cuts

Amazon plans to eliminate just over 18,000 roles, including reductions announced in November, chief executive Andy Jassy said on Wednesday.

Photo © Tony Webster (2018), “Amazon Fulfillment and Trucks Sign – Shipping Center in Shakopee, Minnesota” (2017). CC BY 2.0. Resized; responsive crops.

The expanded total spans several teams, with most cuts in Amazon Stores and People, Experience, and Technology. It is not 18,000 additional cuts on top of November’s reductions.

Notifications to affected employees, or employee representatives where applicable in Europe, are due to begin on 18 January.

Jassy cited economic uncertainty and rapid hiring. He said an employee leak prompted the announcement before individual notifications. Support packages include separation payments, transitional health insurance and external job-placement assistance.