Graphic design platform Canva is restructuring its business as it looks to adapt to changes in the technology industry. The move will affect 1,271 employees, or around 22% of its workforce and includes job cuts, changes in roles and relocation requirements.

Co-founder and CEO Melanie Perkins shared the announcement in a statement to employees, describing it as the hardest decision the company has faced in its 13-year history. She also apologised to those affected, acknowledging the personal impact of the changes.

“This is without doubt the hardest moment in our 13-year history. Behind every decision is someone we care deeply about, and I know the consequences will be very real for those directly affected, their families, friends and teammates,” Perkins said.

The announcement comes after a difficult year for the company, with Perkins saying Canva's growth has slowed for the first time in a decade. She pointed to changes in technology and the way people create and use digital products as some of the factors shaping the company's future plans.

According to Perkins, the company reviewed different options before deciding that smaller adjustments would not be enough to prepare it for its next phase.

“To set ourselves up for the next decade, we need to refound Canva, getting back to our roots of small, empowered teams with the freedom to make decisions, take ownership and focus on what matters most for our community,” she added.

The restructuring will impact employees across different teams and locations. While some workers will leave the company, others may be asked to move to centralised offices or take on different roles.

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