### The Associated Press Plans Workforce Reduction Amid Industry Shifts

In a bid to streamline operations and adapt to a rapidly changing media landscape, the Associated Press (AP) announced plans to decrease its workforce by approximately 8%. The downsizing includes a combination of buyouts and selected layoffs aimed at reinforcing the organization’s shift toward a digital-first model.

By the end of Monday, employees eligible for buyouts were expected to be informed, with offers including severance pay and partial healthcare coverage for up to 18 months. Those facing layoffs will be notified in the upcoming weeks. Despite its significant role in global journalism, the AP has refrained from disclosing the exact number of employees it currently has, making it unclear how many individuals will ultimately be affected by these cuts.

Gabriel Kahn, a media expert from the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, highlights the persistent economic challenges faced by the news industry. According to Kahn, diminishing visibility on social media platforms, exacerbated by algorithm changes and artificial intelligence, has compounded these difficulties in recent years.

News Media Guild reported that buyouts would be extended to 121 of its members. AP hinted that overall job cuts among union members would be fewer than the number slated for buyouts but refrained from providing an exact figure.

Daisy Veerasingham, AP's president and CEO, emphasized the importance of this transition in an early Monday note to staff. She cited the evolving needs of AP's customers as a driving force behind the accelerated push towards digital content, particularly emphasizing visual journalism such as photos and videos.

In recognition of the AP's critical role in the media, especially during U.S. election coverage, Veerasingham noted the unprecedented demand for its comprehensive suite of live video, data, visuals, and interactive products during this month’s elections.

The AP has reached a tentative agreement with its union for the proposed buyouts, pending member ratification. The head of the AP's union was not immediately available for comment on the situation.

Despite recent revenue diversification efforts, including accepting philanthropic funding, the AP continues to confront the broader financial struggles afflicting the news industry. Recent decisions by news chains Gannett and McClatchy to cease purchasing news from AP after over a century-long relationship have also impacted its revenue stream.

The planned reductions and strategic changes are indicative of the broader challenges and transformations faced by news organizations in an increasingly digital world.