Spotify makes significant workforce reduction, laying off 17% of its employees

As the end of the year approaches, Spotify managed to deliver joy to its more than 550 million users with Spotify Wrapped and its revamped design and features. But by the end of 2023, not all the people working at the Swedish company might be in a cheerful mood.

In a surprise move, Spotify announced a significant reduction in its workforce, shedding 17% of its employees. The decision comes as the music-streaming giant grapples with economic uncertainties and seeks to streamline its operations.

In a company press release (via Engadget), CEO Daniel Ek acknowledged the challenging times ahead and explained the rationale behind the layoffs. He stated that the cuts were necessary to align Spotify’s cost structure with its long-term goals and ensure sustainable growth.

Despite recent positive earnings reports, Ek emphasized the need for decisive action to address the widening gap between Spotify’s financial targets and its current operational costs. He acknowledged the impact on employees, expressing empathy for those affected. “While I am convinced this is the right action for our company, I also understand it will be incredibly painful for our team,” he said.

The layoffs follow a period of rapid expansion for Spotify, driven by favorable investment conditions in 2020 and 2021. While these investments contributed to Spotify’s growth, Ek acknowledged that the company’s cost structure remains too high.

Approximately 1,500 employees are expected to be affected by the layoffs, reducing Spotify’s workforce from around 9,000 employees. To mitigate the impact, Spotify offers a five-month severance package, healthcare coverage during that period, and immigration/career support.

Ek emphasized the importance of lean operations in Spotify’s next phase, stating that it is not just an option but a necessity. He also highlighted the company’s revamped royalty model, designed to better support artists while reducing fraudulent streams.

Spotify’s decision reflects the broader challenges facing the tech industry, with many companies facing economic headwinds and being forced to make difficult decisions. Nokia’s recent announcement to slash 14,000 jobs and tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta laying off over 50,000 employees collectively in 2023 underscore the industry’s struggles.