The Disney/ABC Television Group, which includes the ABC network, local TV stations and the Disney Channel and ABC Family cable networks, is restructuring its operations, which will result in some 175 layoffs across the unit. The majority of the cuts are expected to come at ABC’s TV stations and in technical operations for the broadcast and cable networks, says an LA Times story. The Disney/ABC Television Group employs around 7,600 people.
The stations include:
New York City WABC-TV
Los Angeles KABC-TV
Chicago WLS-TV
Philadelphia WPVI-TV
San Francisco KGO-TV
Houston KTRK-TV
Durham/Raleigh WTVD-TV
Fresno KFSN-TV
“As technological advances continue to alter the competitive landscape and viewer habits, it’s incumbent upon us to stay ahead of the curve. To that end, we’ve undergone a review of our organizational structures and processes, and have re-imagined and realigned certain areas and functions to gain efficiencies and better position us for future growth,” a Disney/ABC Television Group spokesman told the paper.
Earlier this spring, Disney’s cable sports empire ESPN trimmed between 300 and 400 positions after its internal review. There have also been staff reductions at Disney’s movie studio, consumer products and video game units.
The cuts haven’t necessarily led to weaker performances, one ABC insider noted. In 2010, ABC News reduced its staff by 400 people, which was 25% of its staff at that time. At that time the network said the moves were necessary if the news unit was to survive.
