OpenTV's UK operation will face cutbacks

The global restructuring of OpenTV will affect the interactive television company's UK operation, but details of the fate of individual offices have not yet been disclosed.
OpenTV, who employ around 90 people in the UK, announced earlier this week a comprehensive plan to reduce expenses significantly in the wake of their recent acquisition of Wink Communications.
The worldwide restructuring is also intended to improve results from operations and better position the company "in light of the current economic environment in the cable and satellite industries."
OpenTV estimate they will reduce their overall workforce by approximately 47%, 315 positions, and close eight regional offices. The job losses are expected to come from right across the company's operations, including marketing, technical and administrative staff.
OpenTV anticipate their global restructuring will be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2003, initially resulting in an annual saving of around £38m.
OpenTV Chief Executive Officer, James Ackerman, said: “We believe these cost-cutting measures will result in a more efficient and focused company that will be well positioned to serve our customers and our goal of achieving long-term growth and profitability."
OpenTV software is found in over six million Sky Digital set-top boxes in the UK.
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