SANTA FE, N.M. — Meow Wolf executives confirmed plans to lay off 165 employees and cut costs by 10% in an effort to “rightsize” the business.
The company will cut 111 employees across its trade show and corporate teams. The company also plans to cut 54 positions in its Las Vegas bargaining department. In the absence of a collective bargaining agreement, they are actively negotiating with unions.
Meow Wolf CEO Jose Tolosa issued a letter to employees on Monday confirming these layoffs. Tolosa said officials were scheduled to meet with affected employees on Wednesday, but decided to send the letter and set the record straight because of rumors.
Tolosa said the company overestimated staffing levels when launching its business model in 2021. Because it was the first of its kind, it was difficult to evaluate it as it was built, he said.
Tolosa said their understanding has deepened. He also said he has a better understanding of what needs to be done and what adjustments need to be made to “optimally staff and support” trade shows in the long term.
“This was a difficult decision, but we are doing everything we can to minimize the impact on our employees. “We know it's not easy saying goodbye to our friends and colleagues, and we want to assure you that we are committed to supporting everyone through this transition,” Tolosa said. Ta.
Tolosa said he plans to offer a retirement package based on his years of experience and expanded medical benefits. I also plan to leverage my connections in the arts and culture community to find new opportunities.
“We also have deep relationships with many arts and culture organizations in our community and look forward to leveraging these connections to support those looking for new opportunities.” “All affected will be eligible for rehiring if they are given appropriate roles at Wolf,” Tolosa said.
Tolosa added that he plans to continue expanding Meow Wolf.
In 2016, Meow Wolf opened its first permanent facility in Santa Fe. Since then, it has opened stores in Las Vegas and Denver in 2021, and last year in Grapevine, a suburb of Dallas-Fort Worth. They plan to open a store in Houston later this year.
