EA Announces Workforce Reduction in Strategic Shift: 5% of Company Facing Layoffs

Electronic Arts (EA), under the leadership of CEO Andrew Wilson, has outlined a significant strategic update aimed at reshaping the company to meet the evolving demands of the gaming industry. This announcement details the company's efforts to adapt to the dynamic entertainment landscape, streamline operations, and focus on key areas for growth.

Adapting to Industry Transformations

EA is adjusting its strategy to cater to the changing needs of players and fans, who now seek broader, more integrated experiences with their favorite gaming IPs. The company aims to entertain vast online communities, deliver compelling blockbuster stories, and foster the power of community engagement within and around its games. To stay ahead in the rapidly transforming entertainment sector, EA is reevaluating its approach to game development, focusing on owned IP, sports titles, and large online communities that promise the most significant potential for success.

Refocusing on Core Strengths

As part of its strategic realignment, EA is optimizing its global real estate footprint to better support its business operations. This includes discontinuing certain games and halting the development of future licensed IPs that do not align with the company's vision for success in the current industry climate. By concentrating on its most promising opportunities, EA aims to drive creativity, accelerate innovation, and offer the immersive, connected experiences that today's players demand. This shift underscores EA's commitment to building community, shaping culture, and expanding fandom through its entertainment offerings.

"Supporting" The Workforce Through Change

The reorganization is expected to affect approximately 5% of EA's workforce. Andrew Wilson expressed that these decisions were made with careful consideration to minimize the impact on the company's teams. EA's priority is to provide affected employees with opportunities to transition to new roles within the organization or to support them through the transition with respect and care. The process of communicating these changes to the workforce has begun and is expected to be largely completed by the start of the next quarter.

Wilson's message to employees emphasized gratitude for their dedication and contributions to EA's ongoing journey. He reaffirmed the company's commitment to leading the future of entertainment through innovation, guided by its core values. As EA navigates these changes, it looks forward to the new opportunities and experiences it will create for players and fans worldwide.