BlackBerry is a company in transition as it looks for ways to remain relevant in the highly competitive smartphone marketplace. While it’s latest smartphone, the BlackBerry Priv, has demonstrated BlackBerry’s desire to explore the Android ecosystem, it’s remained resolute that it isn’t going to move away from its homegrown BlackBerry 10 platform. Actions speak louder than words, however, as a number of layoffs at BlackBerry have apparently hit its headquarters in Waterloo, Canada and office in Florida. Here’s the statement given by BlackBerry regarding the layoffs:
As BlackBerry continues to execute its turnaround plan, we remain focused on driving efficiencies across our global workforce. This means finding new ways to enable us to capitalize on growth opportunities, while driving toward sustainable profitability across all parts of our business. As a result, a small number of employees have been impacted in Waterloo and Sunrise, FL. It also means that BlackBerry is actively recruiting in those areas of our business that will drive growth. For those employees that have recently left the company, we know that they have worked hard on behalf of our company and we are grateful for their commitment and contributions.
The number of layoffs was originally thought to be as many as 1000 people, but the number is apparently close to 200, with layoffs allegedly affecting the BlackBerry 10 device teams. One notable layoff was BBM founder Gary Klassen – it’s not entirely clear what this move signals for BlackBerry, but it’s not likely to be the last personnel shuffle we see in the coming months.
What do you think about the layoffs at BlackBerry? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: MobileSyrup via engadget
