KPMG reduces units on a global level: From 120 to 40 units for greater efficiency

• KPMG is undergoing a major global restructuring.
• The Big 4 wants to consolidate its numerous national firms into larger regional units.
• The goal? To improve efficiency, retain talent, and enhance audit quality.

What’s happening?

The Big 4 giant KPMG is on an efficiency drive.

• KPMG has already slashed its number of global units which was over 120 in 2023.
• As of now, the count has dropped to about 75.
• And the goal is to bring that number down to 30-40 by the end of 2025.

Why the merger?

KPMG is looking at a long term growth approach.

Rather than functioning independently, these country firms will be integrated into larger regional clusters with unified leadership, governance, and investment strategies.

By consolidating, KPMG’s move is a proactive step to:

• Strengthen audit quality and governance
• Improve investment in technology and services
• Create a more attractive work environment for employees

Countries where KPMG is making cuts

According to Wall Street Journal, KPMG is combining operations across 13 African nations into a single regional unit this year.

Smaller KPMG units, particularly those generating less than $300 million in revenue, will get merged into larger clusters.

The upside to this? Gain access to better resources, technology, and expertise.

Also read: Saudi Arabia’s PIF, $925Bn sovereign wealth fund bans PwC

When is the KPMG restructuring set to happen?

The restructuring is expected to be largely completed before KPMG Global Chairman Bill Thomas steps down in September 2026.

With this overhaul KPMG plans to stay ahead of these regulatory demands.

Some important stats to remember

• KPMG operates in 145 countries and territories.
• It employs over 236,000 people worldwide.
• In 2024, the firm reported $38.4 billion in revenue.

Also read: Layoffs at KPMG in its US Audit division

It’s an industry wide practice

The accounting industry is facing slowing growth in some areas.

On top of it, regulators worldwide have been tightening oversight on audit firms due to high-profile accounting failures.

A reason why other firms like PwC and EY have also explored restructuring to adapt to changing market conditions.

With this transformation, KPMG is betting on a more integrated and resilient global network to better serve its multinational clients and navigate the evolving financial landscape.