Amazon-iRobot $1.4B Merger Scrapped Over EU Antitrust; iRobot Cuts 31% Jobs, CEO Resigns

John Lopez, Tech Times 29 January 2024, 09:01 am

Amazon's massive $1.4 billion merger with robot vacuum maker iRobot has hit a roadblock, forcing the tech giants to abandon their plans. The decision comes from staunch opposition from European Union antitrust regulators, leaving both companies to grapple with the aftermath of a failed acquisition.

The repercussions are substantial, with iRobot initiating a significant restructuring plan that includes a staggering 31% cut in its workforce and the immediate resignation of its long-time CEO, Colin Angle (via Reuters).

Amazon-iRobot $1.4B Merger Scrapped Over EU Antitrust; iRobot Cuts 31% Jobs, CEO Resigns — (Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Roomba robot vacuums made by iRobot are displayed on a shelf at a Bed Bath and Beyond store on August 05, 2022, in Larkspur, California.

Regulatory Hurdles

The deal, which Amazon announced in August 2022, faced insurmountable challenges in gaining regulatory approval, particularly from the European Commission.

Reuters tells us that the EU's reluctance is rooted in concerns that Amazon's ownership of iRobot might impede fair competition in the online marketplace, particularly in France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.

This resistance led to a mutual agreement between the companies to terminate the acquisition, causing iRobot shares to plummet by 15% before the market opened.

Amazon, already a juggernaut in the tech industry with its ownership of Alexa and Ring, expressed disappointment over the failed acquisition. David Zapolsky, Amazon's Senior Vice President and General Counsel, stated, "We're disappointed that Amazon's acquisition of iRobot could not proceed."

iRobot's Restructuring

Simultaneously, iRobot unveiled a substantial restructuring plan aimed at reducing costs. This includes a workforce reduction of approximately 31%, equating to 350 jobs. The departure of Colin Angle, the visionary CEO and founder of iRobot, adds a layer of complexity to the company's future trajectory.

Colin Angle expressed disappointment and resilience, stating, "The termination of the agreement with Amazon is disappointing, but iRobot now turns toward the future with a focus and commitment to continue building thoughtful robots and intelligent home innovations that make life better."

Financial Fallout and Regulatory Scrutiny

Initially valued at $1.7 billion, the deal faced several regulatory examinations that ultimately drove the purchase price down. Amazon has agreed to pay iRobot a $94 million breakup fee, providing a semblance of financial relief for the robotic vacuum maker, whose market capitalization now stands at under $400 million (via CNBC).

This failed acquisition adds to the growing list of instances where regulators worldwide scrutinize large technology companies for potential anti-competitive effects.

In the European Union, the Competition and Markets Authority in Britain and the European Commission have intervened in various tech deals, including Meta's acquisition of Giphy, Microsoft's investment in OpenAI, and more.

The company has pledged to focus on margin improvements, reduce spending on research and development, and pause work on "non-floorcare" products, including its air purifiers and robotic lawnmowers.

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