Rogers Sports & Media lays off dozens of workers in audio business
Company says it won't close stations, cut programming or podcasts
Rogers Sports & Media has announced layoffs affecting several dozen employees in its audio division, citing challenges in the advertising market and declining revenue.
"With the radio industry continuing to feel the pressure of an uncertain advertising market, we made some difficult but necessary changes in our audio business impacting roles in several markets," said spokesperson Charmaine Khan in a statement on Tuesday.
Despite the workforce reductions, the company confirmed that no radio stations would be closed and there are no plans to reduce programming or podcasts. Khan explained that the adjustments were aimed at managing operating expenses in response to the unpredictable advertising landscape.
"We recognize and thank the team members who are leaving us for their dedication to our listeners and advertisers," Khan added.
In a statement from November 2023, the company highlighted its position as having the "largest ad-supported audio network" in Canada, reaching eight million listeners monthly across its 56 radio stations nationwide.
These layoffs follow a broader trend within the industry, as other media companies have also been affected by declining advertising revenue. Earlier this year, Corus Entertainment announced layoffs and station closures, citing a "challenging advertising environment." Similarly, BCE, which owns Bell Media, sold off a significant portion of its radio assets in February and laid off thousands of employees.
