Flexport, the digital-focused freight forwarder that secured unicorn status in early 2022, is facing a series of challenges leading to its decision to reportedly lay off another 20% of its staff. The company, which had garnered attention for its disruptive approach to global trade and received significant investments from notable names like Andreessen Horowitz and Shopify, now finds itself navigating through weakened shipping demand, rising interest rates, and internal CEO turmoil.
After a substantial fundraising effort in 2022, including a $1 billion infusion at an $8 billion valuation, Flexport’s fortunes have shifted. The Information reported that the company is set to implement another round of layoffs in the coming weeks, marking the third workforce reduction in barely a year.
Flexport’s CEO, Ryan Petersen, acknowledged the need for efficiency and profitability after what he described as an era of excess under the management of former CEO Dave Clark, an Amazon veteran. Clark, who joined in June 2022, pursued an aggressive growth strategy, investing heavily in technology and making acquisitions to compete with Amazon’s logistics operations. However, Petersen indicated that the spending was unsustainable, leading to Clark’s departure in September 2023.
Petersen, who resumed the CEO position, shifted the company’s focus towards profitability and cost control. The upcoming job cuts are seen as part of this effort to streamline operations and recover from past financial indulgences.
In an interview with Fortune, Petersen explained the change in mindset, stating, “When Clark was CEO, we weren’t that disciplined… We were very focused on growth, very aggressive in hiring, building amazing technology, scaling like crazy, and we spent too much money.”
Flexport had previously cut 20% of its workforce in October 2023 and another 20% in January 2023, citing reasons such as “lower volumes” and “improved efficiencies.” The current move appears to be a continuation of Petersen’s strategy to reshape the company and enhance its financial stability.
Despite the challenges, Petersen emphasized that Flexport has made significant progress towards profitability since he took over. The company recently raised $260 million from Shopify, reinforcing its balance sheet and demonstrating its commitment to navigating uncertainties in global trade.
Petersen stated, “From a strategy standpoint, we’ve always believed in having a really strong balance sheet because global trade is very uncertain… Having that balance sheet lets you invest through the cycle, regardless of what happens.” The partnership with Shopify is seen as a strategic move to boost customer confidence amid recent challenges, signaling that Flexport is open for business and has the backing of major investors.
