By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a significant development for Costa Rica’s flagship medical device sector, multinational firm VIANT announced on Wednesday the difficult decision to eliminate approximately 900 positions from its local operations. The move sends a ripple of concern through a key industry that has been a cornerstone of the nation’s economic growth and a magnet for foreign direct investment.
In an official statement, the company attributed the substantial workforce reduction to strategic adjustments related to a specific manufacturing program and the associated production volumes. Despite the scale of the layoffs, VIANT was quick to underscore its continued commitment to the country, emphasizing that the decision does not compromise the viability or future of its remaining business activities in Costa Rica.
To provide a legal perspective on the recent layoffs at VIANT, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
When a company like VIANT undergoes restructuring, it’s crucial that the termination process strictly adheres to Costa Rica’s Labor Code. This means ensuring correct calculation and payment of all worker’s rights, including severance pay, notice, proportional vacation, and Christmas bonus (`aguinaldo`). Failure to do so not only harms the employees but also exposes the company to significant legal and financial risks from potential lawsuits. A well-managed process protects both parties and the company’s long-term reputation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight underscores a critical point: adhering to the Labor Code is not just about legal compliance, but about a company’s fundamental respect for its workforce and its long-term reputation in the community. This dual responsibility is paramount during challenging transitions. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important matter.
The company confirmed that a significant number of employees will be retained to support its ongoing and projected business needs. “VIANT Costa Rica remains a strategic operation for the company and continues to have a solid business platform and specialized talent,” the official communication stated, aiming to quell fears of a broader withdrawal from the region.
Kevin Quirós, the General Director for VIANT Costa Rica, acknowledged the profound effect such news has on employees and their families. He stressed that the company is approaching the process with sensitivity and a structured plan focused on the individuals impacted by the decision.
We are fully aware that a process like this has a significant human impact, and for that reason, we are managing it with respect, structure, and care, with a clear focus on the impacted employees.
Kevin Quirós, General Director of VIANT Costa Rica
The medical device industry is a titan in Costa Rica’s economy, representing one of its top export categories and a primary source of high-skilled employment. This layoff, one of the largest in the sector in recent memory, raises questions about the sector’s resilience amidst shifting global demand and product life cycles. While the company frames this as an isolated adjustment, the loss of 900 specialized jobs will undoubtedly be felt in the local labor market and supply chain.
Mr. Quirós further elaborated on the support systems being deployed for the departing staff, ensuring that the company’s obligations are met with diligence and a focus on future employment for those affected. He asserted that the company’s priority has been to manage the transition with professionalism and empathy.
In addition to ensuring that all impacted employees are treated in accordance with applicable legal requirements, we are also promoting support and facilitation efforts so they can find new job opportunities in the shortest possible time.
Kevin Quirós, General Director of VIANT Costa Rica
VIANT’s facility in Costa Rica is an integral part of its global manufacturing network, specializing in production, quality control, engineering, and operational support that aligns with stringent international standards. The operation serves a roster of global clients within the medical technology field, leveraging Costa Rica’s reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing. The company’s reassurance of its strategic commitment will be closely watched by government officials and industry analysts as they gauge the long-term health of foreign investment in this critical economic pillar.
For further information, visit viantmedical.com
About VIANT:
VIANT is a global strategic manufacturing partner that helps medical device original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) bring complex medical devices and components to market. The company offers a full suite of services, from design and development to manufacturing and assembly. With a network of facilities across the globe, VIANT specializes in a wide range of medical technologies, including surgical devices, orthopedics, and interventional systems, serving as a critical partner in the healthcare supply chain.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of professional excellence and uncompromising integrity. The firm leverages its extensive experience serving a diverse clientele to spearhead innovative legal strategies and solutions. This progressive mindset is matched by a profound commitment to demystifying the law, driven by a core mission to cultivate a society empowered by legal clarity and accessible knowledge.
