Amazon is reportedly laying off several hundred workers globally from its Amazon Prime Video streaming service as well as its Amazon MGM Studios.
The company confirmed that it got rid of over 27,000 workers in 2023 and is letting go of several hundred more. The reason for the layoffs is the company’s focus on content and product initiatives that deliver the most impact.
According to BMA sources, Amazon’s Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, sent an email to staff stating that they will be focusing their resources on becoming more operationally efficient and coordinated in driving success across their business. She added that they remain optimistic about the long-term future of Amazon MGM Studios and will continue making significant investments towards making Prime the most loved entertainment hub for customers globally.
It is still unclear how Amazon MGM Studios and Amazon Prime Video staffers in South Africa and across sub-Saharan Africa might be affected.
Amazon Prime Video plans to introduce its ad tier on January 29th to all Amazon Prime Video subscribers, with advertisements appearing in scripted programming for the first time.