Microsoft is planning to exit several markets in Europe as part of the next wave of layoffs that could be announced as early as next week. Following the report from Bloomberg that thousands of employees at Microsoft, impacting the Xbox division, will be laid off, The Verge reminded that back in early June they had already reported that a new wave of layoffs is on the way, and it will also affect Europe.
Microsoft Restructuring Xbox Business in Europe
About to enter a new fiscal year on July 1, 2025, Microsoft will allegedly restructure the Xbox business, including a distribution reorganization in Central Europe, “resulting in the cessation of some Xbox operations in certain regions.” In May, Microsoft laid off approximately 6,000 people, a year after closing studios like TangoGameworks and Arkane Austin, as part of frequent reorganizations that resulted in over 10,000 employees being laid off in 14 months. Despite The Verge reporting that some Xbox operations will cease in Europe, specific details of what this means and whether Portugal is included were not shared.
