Post Lexmark deal, Xerox evaluates staff reductions

Rochester, N.Y.,-based TV station News10NBC (WHEC-TV) reports Xerox is reducing its workforce as part of its merger with the company Lexmark, a Xerox spokesperson confirmed.

Xerox acquired Lexmark, a Kentucky-based imaging and laser printing company, in July at a $1.5 billion valuation. In a statement, Xerox said it has begun notifying employees about workforce reductions as it integrates with the new company.

Xerox sent out the following letter to employees:

“Team Xerox, 

Today I’m sharing difficult news that will impact many of our colleagues around the world. 

Following our acquisition of Lexmark, we have been working with purpose and urgency to build an integrated organization that combines the strengths of our two companies, accelerates our Reinvention journey, and positions Xerox for long-term, profitable, and sustainable growth. 

At the core of this transformation is a commitment to reimagining how we work to drive better outcomes for our clients, partners, and each other. This also means making hard choices. Starting today*, some of our colleagues are being notified that their roles have been impacted as a result of this work. For some this could mean a change in reporting line or responsibilities; for others, it will mean their role will not be part of our go-forward structure, and they will be leaving Xerox. We’ve had to make some very difficult decisions to eliminate roles across all levels of the organization. Many of these changes stem from overlapping positions between Xerox and legacy Lexmark, and unfortunately, we’ll be saying goodbye to many talented colleagues whose dedication has been instrumental in building both organizations. 

As we continue on our Reinvention journey, we will continue to face tough decisions, but none tougher than those affecting our employees’ lives. On behalf of the Executive Committee, we remain committed to respecting and valuing the contributions of our employees around the world. I trust that you will support one another and join me in thanking our departing colleagues for their efforts. 

Please refer to this set of Frequently Asked Questions, which includes more information about the global workforce reduction, role transitions, and available support resources. In the coming days and weeks, you will hear more from your leaders regarding what these changes mean for you and your teams as we continue to integrate our two companies and evolve our organizational design and operating model. 

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to each other, our clients, partners, and the communities where we live and work around the world. It is a privilege to lead this team, and I am thankful for each of you—those leaving Xerox today and those continuing the journey. Your efforts have been crucial to our progress, and your continued support will be vital as we move forward and reshape the future of Xerox.”

“These are difficult, but necessary decisions as we work to integrate our teams and optimize resources for long-term success under the new organization,” the statement reads. “We are committed to treating all affected employees with dignity and respect throughout this process.”

Back in January 2024, Xerox announced that it was cutting 15% of its workforce as part of a plan to “implement a new organizational structure and operating model.”