WE Communications has reduced its global workforce by fewer than 2%, with the job cuts concentrated primarily in the US as the agency responds to continued budget pressure from technology-sector clients.
The independent communications agency confirmed that the layoffs do not affect its Asia-Pacific operations, including offices in Singapore, Malaysia, China and Australia.
In a statement, WE Communications said the workforce reduction formed part of its annual planning process ahead of the close of its fiscal year and was driven by changes in client spending.
"WE Communications reduced its workforce by less than 2% globally, primarily in the U.S., in response to budget pressure from technology-sector clients," the agency said.
"It was part of our annual planning ahead of fiscal year close. We will not be disclosing further details at this time."
The latest restructuring follows a separate round of layoffs at the agency's Singapore office in 2025, when roles across creative, digital, public relations, communications, operations, special projects and integrated marketing teams were impacted.
Founded in 1983 by Melissa Waggener Zorkin and Pam Edstrom, WE Communications has built a strong reputation in the technology, healthcare and consumer sectors, with a global network spanning North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. The agency has long counted major technology companies among its clients, making it particularly exposed to fluctuations in tech-sector marketing and communications budgets.
The latest cuts come as agencies across the communications and advertising industry continue to recalibrate their cost structures amid softer client spending, AI-driven operational changes and ongoing economic uncertainty.
The broader holding company sector has also undergone significant workforce restructuring over the past year. Interpublic Group (IPG) disclosed in late 2025 that it eliminated approximately 800 positions during the September quarter, bringing its total workforce reductions for the year to around 3,200 employees as it sought to improve efficiency and align costs with client demand.
The agency industry has faced sustained pressure since 2024 as marketers tighten discretionary spending, particularly in the technology sector, prompting agencies to streamline operations while increasing investments in artificial intelligence, data capabilities and integrated services.
