GoKwik Layoffs: E-Commerce Company Reduces 120 Staff Amid AI Adoption, Say Reports
GoKwik has laid off 100-120 employees in an AI-focused restructuring to automate operations. The startup, which recently raised USD 13 million, is prioritising AI to streamline customer onboarding and technical workflows as part of a broader trend among Indian tech firms to boost productivity.
E-commerce enablement startup GoKwik has reportedly laid off between 100 and 120 employees as part of a significant operational restructuring. The workforce reduction, which took place over the past few weeks, is primarily aimed at accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence and automation across the company's business functions.
AI-Driven Layoffs at GoKwik
The downsizing has impacted multiple departments, with technology, implementation, and customer onboarding teams facing the heaviest brunt of the changes. While as per a report by Inc42 this was first highlighted recently, detailed accounts from as per a report by Lapaas Voice indicate that the company is reorienting its strategy to automate repetitive manual tasks. The startup, which provides software to help direct-to-consumer brands manage checkouts and reduce returns, has not provided an official comment regarding the specific number of employees affected. Silent Layoffs Surge Across India's Tech Industry as AI Reshapes Work; IT Sector Could See 35,000 Job Cuts: Report.
Strategy Behind the Layoffs
The shift toward AI-led operations is designed to streamline internal processes, enhance productivity, and improve operational efficiency. By integrating AI into areas such as merchant support, fraud detection, and data analysis, the company aims to reduce its reliance on manual intervention. This move reflects a growing trend within the broader Indian startup ecosystem, where companies are increasingly prioritising automation to control costs and drive scalable growth. Layoffs in US: Job Cuts Drop 40% in 1st Half of 2026; AI Remains Primary Driver.
Continued Expansion and Funding
Despite these workforce reductions, GoKwik maintains an active growth strategy. The company, which has raised approximately USD 68 million in total funding to date, secured USD 13 million in its latest funding round led by RTP Global, alongside investors such as Z47 and Peak XV Partners. Furthermore, the firm has continued to expand its service portfolio through strategic acquisitions, including the Shopify-focused returns platform Return Prime and chat-commerce startup Tellephant, to strengthen its international presence and product suite.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 12, 2026 02:03 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
