Amazon Freezes Retail Hiring Budget as Cost-Cutting Drive Continues

Amazon’s retail business will maintain a flat hiring budget in 2025, holding headcount-related operating expenses steady to boost efficiency and margins. Managers will now work within strict budget limits, with any increases requiring strong justification, according to an internal email obtained by Business Insider. The move aligns with CEO Andy Jassy’s broader cost-cutting strategy, which has already included significant layoffs and operational streamlining. Amazon retail chief Doug Herrington signaled that cost discipline will remain a priority even as the company invests in new business areas.