Vendease, the Y Combinator-backed Nigerian food procurement startup, has restructured its employee pay system following a significant workforce reduction of 44%. The company is transitioning to a performance-based pay model supported by an Equity Share Option Plan (ESOP). This move comes as Vendease aims for profitability after facing currency depreciation and rising costs. The new compensation structure includes a phased restoration of salaries, with additional focus on AI-driven efficiency and a buy now, pay later (BNPL) product to enhance revenue. Vendease is also exploring new investment opportunities to sustain operations.