Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is set to initiate a significant round of layoffs starting February 10, 2025. In internal communications, employees have been informed that they will receive notifications via email at 5 a.m. local time on Monday, February 10.
The layoffs are part of Meta's strategy to streamline operations and prioritize key growth areas such as machine learning and artificial intelligence. While employees in Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands are exempt due to local regulations, those in other countries across Europe, Asia, and Africa will be notified between February 11 and February 18.
Janelle Gale, Meta's Head of People, referred to these layoffs as "performance terminations." She emphasized that the company will not provide further updates on the specifics of the decisions.
Despite the layoffs, Meta plans to keep its offices open on Monday and has requested staff to assist with an accelerated hiring process for machine learning engineers and other critical roles. The company aims to realign its workforce with its strategic priorities for 2025, ensuring a leaner and more efficient operation.
As Meta navigates this challenging period, investors and industry observers will be closely monitoring the company's ability to maintain its position in the competitive tech landscape.