Intel to Lay Off 20% of Factory Workforce in July Amid Strategic Shift

Intel is preparing for another wave of major layoffs this July, with reports confirming the company will cut 15–20% of its global factory workforce. The move comes as part of a broader restructuring effort under new CEO Lip-Bu Tan, despite the company still turning a profit in several divisions. Intel recently reported a $1.6 billion loss, which has accelerated internal cost-cutting and streamlining initiatives.

The upcoming layoffs are expected to hit Intel’s foundry operations hardest, especially in Oregon — home to its largest manufacturing hub. According to an internal memo, departments have been instructed to begin implementing cuts based on investment priorities and skill alignment. The decision, described as “deeply painful” by Intel’s manufacturing chief, aims to improve efficiency and address mounting affordability challenges.

This restructuring follows the company’s 2024 workforce reduction of 15,000 employees. It also mirrors a broader trend in the tech industry, which has seen over 62,000 job cuts this year alone, as giants like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Meta adapt to AI disruption, slowing growth, and shifting market dynamics.