CNN has announced that it will lay off approximately 6% of its workforce, affecting about 200 employees, as part of a major strategic shift towards digital platforms. This decision comes as the network seeks to adapt to the evolving ways audiences consume news, with CEO Mark Thompson emphasizing the move as essential for CNN’s survival in the digital age.
This restructuring includes a significant $70 million investment in new digital initiatives, aiming to pivot CNN’s focus from traditional television to digital audiences globally. The layoffs will primarily impact roles involved in traditional TV production, with some shows potentially relocating from New York or Washington to Atlanta to reduce costs.
Thompson communicated these changes via an internal memo, noting that while these layoffs are painful, they are part of a broader strategy to ensure CNN remains a leading news organization. He highlighted that the current digital shift is not just a trend but a fundamental change in how news is accessed worldwide.
The network plans to introduce new digital subscription products and enhance its streaming capabilities, reflecting a broader industry trend where news consumption has significantly moved online. This digital push is seen as crucial for CNN to maintain its relevance and competitiveness in a landscape where viewership for cable news has been declining.
Despite these cuts, Thompson assured that there would be new job openings in digital roles, suggesting that the overall headcount might not decrease by year’s end. This move by CNN mirrors similar strategies adopted by other media outlets facing the challenge of cord-cutting and the shift away from traditional cable television.
The layoffs are part of a series of changes at CNN, which has seen its ratings drop in recent years, leading to a reevaluation of its business model under Thompson’s leadership. Critics and observers will be watching closely to see if this digital-focused strategy can reinvigorate CNN’s presence in the highly competitive news market.