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23andMe, once a leader in genetic testing, has filed for bankruptcy after a massive data breach disrupted its operations and thwarted buyout attempts.
What does this mean?
Co-founded by Anne Wojcicki, 23andMe revolutionized genetic testing with its consumer kits launched in 2007, earning accolades as a groundbreaking innovation. But regulatory issues surfaced in 2013 when the FDA halted sales over validation concerns. Though resolved by 2015, sales declined, even after partnering with GlaxoSmithKline in 2018. Going public via a SPAC in 2021 didn’t help, overshadowed by a 2023 data breach affecting 6.9 million users. Wojcicki’s efforts for a buyout failed, leading to the company’s insolvency.
The company is aiming to wrap up the liquidation by June 15. Gift cards will be accepted until April 6, but loyalty points cannot be used.
Hudson’s Bay says all sales will be final at the liquidating stores.
The six stores omitted from the liquidation sales include the flagship on Yonge Street in Toronto, as well as a location in the city’s Yorkdale Mall and another farther north in Hillcrest Mall in Richmond Hill, Ont.
The remaining three span downtown Montreal, the Carrefour Laval Mall and Point-Claire, Que.