Bose used to be the unassailable audio giant. Boston Globe sources say the company has been implementing layoffs in recent years, with public data indicating that its headcount dropped from 9000 in 2019. Bose had fallen short of sales targets as new products struggled in the market, including the Frames audio glasses and SoundControl hearing aids, according to recently departed employees. Bose's bottom line is thought to have been hurt by competition from rivals.
The health division responsible for hearing aids was wiped out by the latest layoffs. The decision came despite the cancellation of the sleep headphone product. The group was axed by the CEO after an outside review said Bose needed to stop working on hearing aid work.
The most recent layoffs were confirmed by the Globe. She didn't comment on staff counts or strategy, but the layoffs were a question of focus. She said that they would help Bose concentrate on the products that matter most to customers. Bose was still hiring in other areas, with 200 available roles.
A shrinking workforce is not surprising. Bose is synonymous with headphones and speakers, but it is competing in markets that are dominated by true wireless earbuds like the ones from Apple. The company doesn't have as many opportunities to thrive as it used to.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
