Vroom, the buying and selling platform for vehicles, has made the decision to wind down its used-vehicle ecommerce business and cut a significant number of staff members. This news has caused a sharp decline in Vroom’s shares, which fell by 33% to just 36 cents in after-hours trading.
Over the past six months, the company’s shares have plummeted more than 75%. In an effort to raise capital for its ecommerce business, Vroom had been looking for funding. However, it announced on Monday that it had not been successful in raising sufficient funds.
As a result, Vroom will be eliminating approximately 800 positions, ceasing transactions on its website for buying and selling used cars, and selling off its current inventory. The company’s businesses United Auto Credit and CarStory will continue to operate, but a significant portion of its workforce will be reduced by about 90%.
Vroom’s decision to wind down its used-vehicle ecommerce business is primarily aimed at preserving liquidity and maximizing stakeholder value. In a recent regulatory filing, the company also revealed that it had made changes to its inventory financing and security agreement with Ally Financial. The credit line for future vehicle purchases has been suspended, and Vroom is now required to maintain 40% of its outstanding borrowings in cash.
While this decision signifies a major change for Vroom, the company is optimistic about the future of its remaining operations. It remains to be seen how this strategic shift will impact stakeholders and the overall trajectory of Vroom’s business.