Nevro Layoffs: What Happened & Why?

January 9, 2024
United States
Healthcare

Nevro Corp., a prominent medical device maker based in Redwood City, California, is set to lay off 63 employees, or 5% of its workforce, in January 2024. Despite this, the company anticipates exceeding revenue expectations for the fourth quarter. This article will delve into the reasons behind the layoffs, their implications, and what the future holds for Nevro.

Why did Nevro have layoffs?

Nevro's decision to lay off 63 employees, or 5% of its workforce, is primarily driven by a strategic restructuring plan aimed at supporting long-term growth and profitability. According to CEO Kevin Thornal, the layoffs are part of an effort to streamline operations and focus investments on areas that will position the company for future success. This restructuring is expected to positively impact Nevro's adjusted EBITDA by $14 million to $15 million in 2024, despite normal operating expense increases such as inflation and merit raises. The layoffs mainly affect internally focused roles within corporate, sales and marketing, and operations positions. By making these adjustments, Nevro aims to enhance its commercial execution and market penetration, particularly as it enters the fast-growing sacroiliac joint space through the acquisition of Vyrsa Technologies.

Financial Impact and Future Directions

Nevro's recent layoffs are expected to yield significant financial benefits. The restructuring is projected to positively impact the company's adjusted EBITDA by $14 million to $15 million in 2024, despite a $5 million to $6 million restructuring charge in Q1. This move aims to streamline operations and enhance profitability.

Strategically, Nevro is concentrating on high-growth areas such as the Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) market and expanding into the sacroiliac joint space through the acquisition of Vyrsa Technologies. These adjustments are designed to bolster commercial execution and market penetration, positioning Nevro for sustained success.

Impact on Industry

Nevro's layoffs could signal a broader trend in the healthcare industry towards operational efficiency and strategic restructuring. As companies like Nevro streamline internally focused roles, there may be a shift towards automation and enhanced internal processes. This could lead to increased investments in customer-facing roles and technologies to maintain service quality. Additionally, mergers and acquisitions, such as Nevro's acquisition of Vyrsa Technologies, might become more prevalent as companies seek to enter new markets and bolster their product offerings. These changes could ultimately drive innovation and growth within the industry.

Conclusion

Nevro's layoffs aim to streamline operations and focus on high-growth areas, enhancing profitability and market penetration. The restructuring is expected to improve adjusted EBITDA by $14 million to $15 million in 2024. This move could signal a trend towards operational efficiency in the healthcare industry, potentially leading to more mergers and acquisitions. Nevro's future might involve further strategic adjustments to maintain its competitive edge and drive innovation in the sector.