CALIFORNIA : Google has announced that it will be reducing or eliminating some of its company-wide perks, including free snacks, laundry services, massages, and company lunches, as part of a cost-saving initiative.
The move is aimed at using funds more efficiently and prioritizing higher-priority work, according to Chief Financial Officer Ruth Porat. The company will also slow down its hiring process and discontinue spending on personal equipment such as laptops.
Perk adjustments will vary based on office location needs and trends seen in each office space, and may include closing micro-kitchens on days with lower usage and shifting fitness class schedules. The changes are necessary to create savings to support other improvements, such as machine utilization, according to Google.
CEO Sundar Pichai announced earlier this year that the company would be cutting staff by 6% (approximately 12,000 employees) to focus on its highest priorities, including Artificial Intelligence.
Despite the cutbacks, Google maintains that it will continue to offer industry-leading perks, benefits, and amenities. A company spokesperson emphasized that the changes are necessary to help the company remain responsible stewards of its resources.
(Islamabad51-Newsdesk)
