Bird, a prominent customer relationship management (CRM) platform, is executing a strategic realignment that includes cutting 120 jobs, approximately one-third of its workforce. Founded in Amsterdam, Bird has developed a unified solution that allows businesses to connect with their customers via multiple channels, including email, SMS, voice, and WhatsApp. The company boasts an impressive customer roster, with major players such as Meta, PayPal, Square, and Uber relying on its services. Despite the layoffs, Bird’s financial health remains robust.
The decision to reduce the workforce predominantly affects roles in Europe, aligning with Bird's strategy to optimize its global operations amid the burgeoning AI boom. The company's founder and CEO, Robert Vis, emphasized that the layoffs were not a cost-cutting measure. Instead, Bird aims to position its teams closer to customers in the Americas and Asia to better serve them within their local time zones and cultural contexts.
"The changes will help us return to the agile, focused model that drove our early success — starting with SMS and expanding to become one of the world’s largest providers of business communications solutions," said Vis.
In recent years, Bird has experienced significant growth and expansion. In 2021, the company raised $800 million in a Series C extension with participation from Tiger Global, Eurazeo, and Owl Rock. Bird also acquired SparkPost, an email marketing platform, for $600 million the same year. These strategic moves contributed to Bird's valuation reaching $3 billion after securing a $240 million funding round in 2021.
As part of its realignment efforts, Bird has slashed prices to compete more aggressively with rivals like Twilio, Klaviyo, and Attentive. This move reflects Bird's commitment to maintaining its position as a leading provider of business communication solutions while adapting to the changing technological landscape.
Bird's strategic realignment highlights its European roots and strong presence across the Americas and Asia. By enhancing customer proximity and tailoring services to regional needs, Bird aims to sustain its growth trajectory and continue delivering value to its clients.
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