Retail business model fundamentals and best practices

Retail business model fundamentals and best practices

Retail business model fundamentals and best practices

February 17, 2025

Retail business model fundamentals and best practices

With a market size value predicted to reach USD 40.735 Trillion by 2030, retail remains one of the most familiar business models. Despite major changes in shopping habits and technology, people still value the simple experience of finding what they need in a physical store. From retail startups testing new ideas to established department stores, this model continues to shape how most of us buy our everyday items.

How retail business model works

The basics of the retail business model are pretty simple. Shop owners stock their stores with items they buy in bulk from suppliers. They price these items higher than what they paid, which creates their profit. Good retail owners pick products people actually want, keep their prices reasonable, and make sure they have enough items in stock. That’s really all there is to it, buy wholesale, sell retail, and make money on the difference.

Core principles of retail business model

The retail model relies on a few key factors to work well. Picking the right products takes research and knowing your market since guessing what people might buy is risky. A store’s success also depends heavily on finding that middle ground with pricing, especially when dealing with tough competition.

Most shop owners find that maintaining just enough inventory, choosing a busy location, and training friendly staff make the biggest impact on their sales. These parts might seem obvious, but plenty of retail stores struggle when they miss even one of them. Beyond these basics, getting customers and increasing sales requires smart marketing, great service, and an engaging shopping experience that makes people want to return.

Building the right retail business

Creating a retail store that stands the test of time starts with laying the right groundwork, from planning to execution.

  • Market research: Look at what similar stores are doing in your area, who shops there, and why some stores do better than others. Your gut feeling isn’t always right
  • Financial planning: Calculate how much money you need to start, including extra cash for those first few slow months. Many stores fail because they run out of money too soon
  • Supplier relations: Find reliable suppliers who deliver quality products on time and at good prices. Bad suppliers can ruin your reputation quickly
  • Staff selection: Hire people who care about customer service and train them well. Good employees make customers want to come back
  • Store layout: Design your store to make shopping easy and enjoyable. A well-organized shop helps customers find what they want and often buy more

Getting these fundamentals right early on saves you from costly mistakes later, giving your store a better chance at long-term success.

Retail vs. E-commerce

A brick-and-mortar retail store operates quite differently from an online shop, with each having its own advantages for both business owners and customers.

  • Business Costs – Physical stores deal with rent, utilities, and store maintenance, while online shops spend money on website hosting and digital marketing. Running a local store usually costs more
  • Customer Experience – Store shoppers can touch products, try things on, and take items home right away. Online buyers rely on photos and reviews but enjoy shopping from their couch
  • Stock Management – Local stores must carefully manage limited shelf space and keep products organized. Online retailers can list thousands of items without space limits
  • Market Reach – Physical stores mainly serve local customers who can visit in person. Online shops can sell to people anywhere, though shipping costs affect their reach
  • Personal Service – Retail stores offer face-to-face help and immediate problem-solving. Online shops provide convenience but lose that personal touch

The choice between retail and e-commerce often comes down to what you’re selling and who you’re trying to reach, with many businesses now choosing to do both.

Conclusion

While opening a physical store costs more than selling online, many customers still prefer shopping in person, touching products, and getting help from real people. Smart store owners know their local market, keep costs under control, and create an experience that keeps shoppers coming back. Whether you’re focused on getting your product in stores or building customer loyalty, success comes down to planning, execution, and adapting to changing consumer trends. With good strategy and attention to the basics, retail stores can still thrive, even as online shopping grows more popular.

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21 innovative B2C startups accelerating business growth (2025)

21 innovative B2C startups accelerating business growth (2025)

21 innovative B2C startups accelerating business growth (2025)

February 17, 2025

Must-know B2C startups that are putting the consumer first

Successful B2C startups focus intensely on understanding consumer preferences and behaviors, providing a seamless user experience, and utilizing data to improve their value propositions. They use technology and digital platforms to provide goods, services and experiences aimed at serving consumers’ personal needs and desires.

Top B2C startups

Complete list of B2C startups that are worth knowing:

Photoroom

Founded in 2019, Photoroom is a photo editing app that makes it easy to remove backgrounds and tweak images. It uses artificial intelligence to identify the foreground and cleanly cut out complex backgrounds with just one click.

The app is designed specifically for ecommerce sellers, online marketers, and social media influencers who need professional-looking visuals quickly. Instead of spending hours manually selecting backgrounds or struggling with complex tools, Photoroom makes flawless cutouts in seconds.

Speechify

Founded in 2019, Speechify converts any PDF document into an audio file that users can listen to at their own pace. The text is read aloud clearly using natural-sounding speech synthesis.

Speechify’s Chrome extension reaches over 2 million users globally, making it one of the most popular extensions. For students struggling with written materials, Speechify unlocks learning through an auditory channel.

Glossier

Founded in 2010, Glossier’s approach to minimalist packaging and marketing gained fame on social media and influencer networks. This grassroots buzz helped attract millions of passionate followers.

Appreciative write-ups in renowned outlets like Vogue, Elle, and the New York Times further amplified brand awareness. Glossier has become a DTC powerhouse, recently launching its first international retail store in London.

Soylent

Founded in 2013 by a group of engineers, Soylent was conceived as an efficient meal substitute that met all dietary needs in a portable form. Each pre-mixed bottle contains 20g of vegan protein, vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients.

In addition to the bottled drinks, Soylent offers powders to mix and bars for easy grab-and-go plant-based nutrition. Their range of formats aims to simplify balanced eating on the go or at home.

Quip

Founded in 2015, Quip set out to refresh the stale electric toothbrush space with contemporary, streamlined products and subscription plans. Their brushes simplify dental routines with features like built-in timers and guiding pulses.

Quip’s oral care essentials and gift sets have earned glowing praise from publications like GQ, CNET, and The New York Times for their innovation and style. Subscriptions deliver fresh brush heads automatically.

Geologie

Founded in 2017, Geologie offers a streamlined routine system focused on formulas with clinically-proven antioxidants, peptides, and botanicals. Subscriptions deliver customized regimens to user’s doors.

Geologie’s direct-to-consumer model provides high service levels, including a 30-day trial period allowing customers to return products risk-free if unsatisfied. Their goal is to build trust and loyal fans.

Yooji

Launched in 2020, Yooji ships refrigerated packages with simple, clean ingredient purees straight to parents’ doors weekly. Menus cater to different stages and rotate for variety.

Yooji handles sourcing organic fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins. Parents simply grab a pouch, warm it up, and serve wholesome, nutritious meals anywhere.

CodeSpark

Founded in 2017, CodeSpark designed their courses specifically for young learners getting started on coding basics. Interactive games teach core concepts like sequences, loops, and conditionals in a fun, encouraging environment.

With cute characters, clear instructions, and progression at the child’s pace, CodeSpark removes common barriers to coding for early learners. Kids gain confidence and pride in new skills.

Cera

Founded in 2016, Cera matches vetted professional caregivers to seniors requiring assistance with daily activities through an online platform. Remote patient monitoring and family app features allow shared care collaboration.

For aging adults preferring to remain at home, Cera delivers reliable care and companionship assisted by technology. Their services promote safety and independence while reducing family stress and isolation.

Ledger

Founded in 2014, Ledger offers a range of hardware wallets and the Ledger Live app for consumers to store, buy, swap, stake, and grow cryptocurrency holdings. Enterprise offerings enable financial institutions to integrate white-label custody and trading services.

Ledger’s core innovation is an operating system combining hardware, software, and security processes enabling users to transact and access digital assets securely through an intuitively designed interface. Their solutions protect against online and physical theft.

Lyst

Founded in 2010, Lyst aggregates an extensive catalog of clothing, accessories, and beauty styles for consumers to filter and search by preferences like size, price, brands, and sustainability. Users can follow trending styles and shop seamlessly.

For partner brands and retailers, Lyst provides a channel to reach high-intent fashion enthusiasts, while gaining insights from user behavior data to optimize strategies. Lyst’s reach and analytics strengthen performance.

Swile

Founded in 2018, the French startup provides employers flexible tools to offer benefits, rewards, and incentives while giving employees an engaging experience managing and redeeming their allocations.

Swile streamlines administration of perks like meal subsidies and commute or childcare support to one integrated platform with direct vendor payouts. Users instantly access funds and budget through the app.

Me+Em

Founded in 2009, Me+Em delivers luxury-quality designs at attainable price points driven by their direct-to-consumer model. Their online store ships globally while physical boutiques provide personalized in-store experiences.

With a flexible hybrid distribution model, Me+Em serves customers however they prefer to shop. Their retail sites and mobile apps fuse stellar digital experiences with helpful in-real-life services and guidance.

Ornikar

Founded in France in 2013, Ornikar offers interactive online driver’s ed classes, practice permit exams, and a network of accredited driving instructors for behind-the-wheel training. The company aims to streamline each step.

By building an end-to-end digital learning experience, Ornikar makes getting a license more accessible. Students save money while retaining flexibility in how they learn. Licensed instructors provide in-person tutoring.

Plend

Launched in 2021, Plend offers personal loans, credit builder products, and financial education tailored to each user’s financial profile. Loan decisions consider income stability versus relying solely on credit reports.

For the credit invisible or those with past credit challenges, Plend looks beyond scores to match consumers with responsible credit matched to their situation. Financial literacy resources provide guidance.

Cazoo

Founded in 2018, Cazoo offers thousands of used cars for purchase or subscription with home delivery and returns. Their website allows nationwide browsing with high-res imagery, 360 views, and condition reports. Financing and warranties provide value.

For consumers, Cazoo intends to provide the selection benefits of large dealers plus the convenience of ecommerce and subscriptions. Competitive pricing and lower overhead savings pass to buyers.

Zego

Founded in 2016, Zego offers pay-per-use and subscription coverage options for things like commercial vehicles, hire and reward, and contractor tools. Policies can be customized for specific assets and timeframes as needed.

For SMEs requiring tailored policies that align with their unique and dynamic risks, Zego provides insurance shaped around evolving commercial needs versus standardized options.

Jude

Founded in 2021, Jude offers incontinence products designed with discreet packaging and mail delivery to make managing leaks more convenient. Their community content promotes open dialogue and expert advice.

Jude’s product lineup includes liners, underwear, and skincare focused on comfort and confidence. Their mission is to encourage conversations and understanding around a sensitive health issue impacting millions.

Fresha

Founded in 2015, Fresha allows customers to conveniently discover and book salons and spas while providing owners with business management software. Customers access seamless online booking, staff profiles, and loyalty programs.

For salon owners, Fresha integrates POS, scheduling, notification reminders, CRM, and other features into one intuitive platform. Owners gain insights to manage staffing, build customer loyalty, and boost bookings.

Swappie

Founded in 2016, Swappie refurbishes and resells used iPhones after thorough cleaning, testing, replacement of defective parts, and data wiping. Each device receives a new battery and outer shell.

The company sources used devices, refurbishes them to like-new condition in their European factories, then sells them directly to consumers seeking discounted iPhones online. All phones come with a 12-month warranty.

Ouihelp

Founded in 2017, the French startup’s booking platform allows seniors and family members to conveniently find, schedule, and manage affordable assistance with housekeeping, administrative tasks, companionship, mobility, meal prep and other daily activities.

For elderly individuals wishing to remain self-sufficiently at home, Ouihelp provides trusted assistance on-demand. All caregivers are thoroughly screened and insured. Electronic visit logs give family peace of mind.

Conclusion

By putting the customer first and maintaining relentless focus on addressing consumer pain points with cutting-edge innovations, these B2C startups have found product-market fit and grown quickly to establish commanding positions in their target segments.

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  • Food startups that are developing amazing food making and delivery solutions.

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The best 21 design startups you should know in 2025

The best 21 design startups you should know in 2025

The best 21 design startups you should know in 2025

February 17, 2025

Top design startups investing in the future of desig

With multi-billion dollar industries like architecture, manufacturing, and visual communications still relying on outdated legacy processes, the market opportunities are endless for disruptive design startups.

Some of the most exciting design startups are blending cutting-edge technology with creative design thinking to develop products and services that deliver beautiful user experiences.

Top design startups

Complete list of design startups that are worth knowing:

Pendo

Founded in 2013, Pendo offers software that helps companies get users to adopt new tools and applications more quickly. Their platform makes it easier for employees to learn business software so they can become productive faster.

The Pendo solution tracks how workers actually use apps to reveal sticking points. For example, it might show where people get stuck completing a process or keep clicking on help menus. Using analytics and feedback cues, it gives real-time guidance right within the app interface.

Makelab

Founded in 2013, Makelab is focused on making product prototyping accessible through digital 3D printing services. Their platform allows upload of CAD files for manufacturing.

Makelab serves both companies and consumers with design ideas globally. Users easily produce 3D printed prototypes from digital files at affordable rates. This aims to accelerate design workflows.

Tapestry

Founded in 1941 as a handbag manufacturer which evolved over decades into a multinational accessories group. Tapestry aimed to foster inspiration, inclusivity and innovation across its portfolio of aspirational brands.

Tapestry serves customers worldwide seeking premium bags, footwear and lifestyle accessories that express personal style. Consumers appreciate the brands’ focus on craftsmanship, creativity and community. This aims to create lasting relationships that transcend transactions.

Work & Co

Founded in 2013, Work & Co blends strategic design, technology and business thinking to build digital products people love. Their expertise spans UX, engineering, analytics and growth.

Work & Co serves organizations pursuing digital transformation and innovation. Clients rely on their integrated strategy-to-execution capabilities realizing ideas from concept to launch and beyond. This progresses customer-centricity and growth through digital experiences.

The Black Tux

Founded in 2013, The Black Tux upgrades formalwear rental by moving the experience fully online. Their e-commerce platform handles selections, sizing, deliveries and returns.

The Black Tux serves men needing formalwear conveniently across the US and Canada. Customers book attire for weddings, events and other occasions without visiting a store. This provides access, customization and simplicity.

Smart Design

Founded in 1980, Smart Design aimed to ground design in genuine user understanding and creativity. Their human-centered process spans research, ideation and design strategy.

Smart Design partners with leading brands globally to drive innovation. Clients rely on their expertise to uncover insights and opportunities guiding strategic design directions. This aims to differentiate offerings through purposeful experiences.

Runyon

Founded in 2014, Runyon accelerates innovation by testing concepts quickly through real-world prototypes and feedback. Their methodology focuses on rapid experimentation and iteration.

Runyon partners with organizations pursuing product and venture development. Clients rely on their prototyping expertise to ideate, test and evolve ideas faster with less risk. This aims to shorten time-to-market while maximizing customer fit.

Square

Founded in 2009, Square enables businesses to accept card payments anywhere using mobile devices. The company aimed to make payments simple, transparent and accessible through modern tools. Their offerings range from point-of-sale to payroll.

Square serves millions of sellers globally, from small vendors to large retailers. Businesses benefit from affordable pricing, omnichannel commerce solutions and data insights that help manage and run their operations. This aims to empower entrepreneurship, growth and financial inclusion.

 A/B Partners

Founded in 2019, A/B Partners aimed to reshape influence through design rooted in community identities and needs. Their creative process amplifies diverse voices.

A/B Partners collaborates with change-driven organizations globally. Clients rely on the team’s inclusive strategies and creative to progress organizational and societal evolution. This aims to build equity and empowerment.

Blenderbox

Founded in 2009, Blenderbox drives social good through digital products designed around real community insights and needs. Their process prioritizes inclusion and access.

Blenderbox collaborates with public sector and nonprofit partners globally. Clients rely on their expertise to conceive and execute services focused on creating broad societal value. This aims to promote justice and empowerment.

Candy Digital

Founded in 2021, Candy Digital advances premium branded NFT experiences through a blend of culture, community and commerce. Their platform facilitates content creation, curation and collecting.

Candy Digital collaborates with athletes, artists and other talent to produce content-driven NFTs for fans. Rights holders rely on Candy’s end-to-end capabilities realizing the potential of branded collectibles. This aims to deepen connections through digital value.

STUDIOS

Founded in 1985, STUDIOS seeks to humanize commercial design through creativity and purpose. The firm aimed to make spaces uplifting and intuitive through collaborative, research-led architecture rooted in client objectives. Their expertise spans workplace, hospitality and cultural environments.

STUDIOS partners with leading brands and developers worldwide to envision flagship spaces. Clients rely on the firm’s strategic design acumen realizing environments optimized for productivity, culture and customer experience. This aims to differentiate through design.

AFRY

Founded in 2019. AFRY combines over a century of shared industry expertise. The company aimed to shape a sustainable future through integrated solutions grounded in systems thinking. Their capabilities span consulting, digitalization and technical solutions.

AFRY partners with private and public organizations undertaking transformation. Clients rely on their tailored expertise plotting pathways aligning growth and ethics across the value chain. This aims to embed sustainability through innovation.

Eventscape

Founded in 2001, Eventscape is seeking to advance architectural fabrication through purpose and technology. The company aimed to push construction capabilities realizing novel designs requiring extreme precision and versatility. Their expertise encompasses engineering, project management and production.

Eventscape partners with architects, builders and brands on creatively ambitious initiatives. Clients rely on their specialized fabrication acumen to engineer intricacies and innovations that extend architectural possibilities. This aims to build the extraordinary.

Aumcore

Founded in 2015, Aumcore enables brands to maximize their digital potential through connected capabilities. The agency aimed to deliver agile solutions tuned to each client’s unique objectives powered by data intelligence. Their expertise includes UX design, development, marketing and optimization.

Aumcore partners with brands and organizations undertaking digital initiatives to engage audiences and propel strategies. Clients rely on their integrated implementation actualizing data-led plans through comprehensive digital activation. This aims to accelerate performance and ROI.

Snowday

Founded in 2003, Snowday unites strategy, creativity and impeccable production. The studio aimed to make great creativity accessible through a hands-on process valuing ideas, craft and collaboration equally. Their capabilities span conception, directing, design, animation and building.

Snowday partners with brands undertaking marketing, digital and experiential initiatives. Clients rely on their strategic outlook and meticulous production executing ambitious projects creatively. This aims to engage audiences through memorable content and experiences.

Nickelfox

Founded in 2008, Nickelfox drives innovation through a comprehensive design approach encompassing research, ideation and execution. The company aimed to make great user experiences accessible through their customized process valuing design thinking and craft equally.

Nickelfox partners with organizations undertaking digital product and brand initiatives. Clients rely on their strategic outlook and solid execution skills to solve business challenges through human-centered solutions optimized for usability and impact. This aims to drive customer-focused growth and differentiation.

GBcoloring

Founded in 2021, GBcoloring makes diverse coloring pages easily available to parents and teachers. The platform aimed to provide a rich digital coloring book spanning interests that users can print at home instantly. Their images cover educational themes supporting learning through play.

GBcoloring serves parents and teachers of kids ages 1-8 looking for coloring resources. Users appreciate the vast selection of pictures spanning interests that are high-quality and easy to print and color. This fosters skill development creatively.

MeanPug Digital

Founded in 2009, MeanPug Digital enables law practices to maximize their potential through strategy-led marketing rooted in proven legal expertise. The agency aimed to deliver comprehensive solutions tuned to each firm’s unique objectives and challenges powered by industry insights.

MeanPug Digital partners with law firms undertaking initiatives to engage clients and propel firm strategies. Clients rely on their tailored programs actualized through brand building, technology implementation, content production and performance activation. This aims to accelerate results and ROI.

Innovo Pro Design

Founded in 2020, Innovo Pro Design provides local businesses accessible design services that drive real results. The company aimed to deliver tailored solutions fine-tuned to each client’s unique objectives and challenges. Their expertise spans web design, development and digital marketing.

Innovo Pro Design partners with local startups and small companies undertaking digital initiatives to attract and convert more customers. Clients rely on their implementation skills actualizing affordable, effective solutions tailored for converting Westchester audiences while expressing brands authentically. This aims to accelerate ROI across digital touchpoints.

Trinetix

Founded in 2008, Trinetix drives business success through human-centered digital product design and development. The company aimed to make great digital products accessible through an adaptive process valuing imagination, craft and focusing on outcomes.

Trinetix partners with organizations undertaking digital product and innovation initiatives. Clients rely on their strategic outlook and solid execution skills to solve challenges through customer-focused solutions optimized for adoption and impact. This aims to accelerate performance and growth.

Conclusion

As design continues permeating into every corner of business and consumer experience, expect the fresh vigor and user-centered ethos of design startups to keep leading the way. The future of design has never looked brighter thanks to their vision and execution.

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21 innovative risk management startups to watch in 2025

21 innovative risk management startups to watch in 2025

21 innovative risk management startups to watch in 2025

February 17, 2025

Must-know risk management startups with innovative risk solutions

This is fueling demand for a new breed of risk management startups armed with cutting-edge technology, advanced analytics, and proprietary risk models. These agile startups focus squarely on identifying and mitigating threats across operations, supply chains, cybersecurity, sustainability, and more.

Top risk management startups

Complete list of the most innovative risk management startups that are worth knowing:

Cowbell Cyber

Founded in 2019, Cowbell Cyber provides cyber insurance coverage paired with technology that continuously evaluates customers’ risk. Their AI-powered platform called Cowbell Factors gives real-time insight to both the insurer and policyholder.

Cyberattacks and data breaches create massive financial and reputational damage. Cowbell Cyber aims to pioneer the market with an insurance model tailored to rapidly shifting digital threats. Policy pricing adjusts according to the policyholder’s live risk posture. When systems are compromised, Cowbell Cyber’s forensic investigations and response services kick in.

CybelAngel

Founded in 2013, CybelAngel helps organizations identify and mitigate external digital threats. Their platform monitors the web and darknet for emerging risks.

CybelAngel serves customers worldwide across sectors like healthcare and finance. Clients use the intelligence to protect their digital assets and data. The platform aims to provide enterprise-grade cyber visibility.

BitSight

Founded in 2011, BitSight focused on helping organizations quantify and manage cyber risk. Their platform generates security ratings to assess vendor and investment risk.

BitSight serves enterprise customers globally. Clients use the ratings to benchmark security performance and make informed decisions. The platform provides data-driven cyber risk insights. BitSight delivers. Their ratings empower clients to monitor cyber risk and make smart security decisions.

ZeroFOX

Founded in 2013, ZeroFOX focuses on helping organizations address social media risks. Their platform integrates with SIEM and security systems to enable action.

ZeroFOX serves global customers across sectors like finance and retail. Clients use the intelligence to safeguard their brands and data on social platforms. The software aims to provide comprehensive social media risk protection. Judging by the proactive insights, ZeroFOX empowers organizations to tackle emerging social risks.

Cyberint

Founded in 2015, Cyberint helps organizations manage cyber threats proactively. Their platforms integrate intelligence to enable risk-based action.

Cyberint serves global enterprise customers across industries. Clients use the insights to safeguard critical digital assets and infrastructure. The solutions aim to provide advanced threat protection.

DeNexus

Founded in 2020, DeNexus aimed to help organizations measure and mitigate cyber risks. Their platform uses AI to identify assets, threats, and vulnerabilities.Customers leverage the data-driven insights to understand risk levels and make strategic security enhancements. The platform aims to deliver continuous visibility into cyber risk.

The platform empowers clients to uncover unknown threats and precisely gauge cyber risk. Judging by the AI approach, DeNexus enables data-driven monitoring, analysis and mitigation of cyber risk.

SPIN Analytics

Founded in 2012, SPIN Analytics aims to modernize credit risk management by leveraging cutting-edge technology. RiskRobot ingests data from multiple sources and uses machine learning algorithms to build predictive models that identify risky creditors or transactions. The software provides visualizations and analytics to help banks, lenders and businesses better understand risk patterns and strategies.

Unlike traditional credit risk software, RiskRobot can process both structured and unstructured data. This allows for more robust insights by incorporating external data like news, social media feeds, and macroeconomic trends. The software also continuously monitors models to detect potential biases or performance erosion over time.

Regtify

Founded in 2015, Regtify provides an intelligent platform to help financial institutions stay compliant amid constantly evolving regulations. The software ingests regulatory text and legal documents and uses natural language processing to identify changes that could impact a business.

Regtify goes beyond just tracking rule changes – it also monitors how new regulations could affect critical performance metrics. By using Regtify, financial services firms can reduce the resources required to manually track regulation changes across jurisdictions.

G-Square

Founded in 2017, G-Square focuses on bringing AI advances to market risk management. Their platform integrates alternative data and model development automation.

G-Square serves banks, asset managers and financial firms globally. Clients use the analytical insights to enhance market risk visibility and response. The software aims to sharpen market risk capabilities.

BigID

Founded in 2016, BigID aims to fill the technology gap around personal data security and privacy. The company’s platform uses machine learning and other AI techniques to automatically discover, catalog and manage sensitive customer data across an organization’s IT systems.

BigID goes beyond just tracking data to also help enforce privacy policies and compliance mandates. The software can mask or delete personal info as needed to align with regulations like GDPR and CCPA. It also generates audit reports to demonstrate compliance to customers and regulators.

Riskified

Founded in 2013, Riskified optimizes eCommerce merchant sales and fraud prevention. Their platform assesses shopper risk in real-time during transactions.

Riskified serves online merchants globally across industries. Clients integrate the solution to increase revenue from legitimate sales while blocking fraud. The platform aims to deliver a frictionless customer experience.

UpGuard

Founded in 2012, UpGuard helps organizations assess and mitigate cyber risk across the extended IT ecosystem. Their platform evaluates vulnerabilities and cyber hygiene.

UpGuard serves global customers across highly regulated industries like finance and healthcare. Their platform enables clients to uncover vendor weaknesses and take action to improve cyber defenses.

Sigma Ratings

Founded in 2017, Sigma Ratings helps financial institutions assess non-credit risks. Their platform analyzes ESG, compliance and other threat factors.

Sigma Ratings serves global banks, investors and governments. Clients leverage the risk intelligence to guide decisions and meet regulatory mandates. The ratings aim to deliver holistic risk profiling.

Haul

Founded in 2018, Haul set out to build an integrated platform for supply chain vehicle and workforce oversight. Their software centralizes compliance, safety and productivity tracking.

Haul serves shippers, carriers and brokers in transportation and logistics. Users benefit from streamlined visibility and control over assets and labor. The platform aims to deliver a unified command center reducing risks and costs.

FRDM

Founded in 2020, FRDM transform how businesses track and mitigate supplier risks. Their software integrates data to uncover ESG, compliance and financial threats.

FRDM serves global enterprises across industries. Customers use the risk insights to enhance supply chain resilience, compliance and values alignment. The platform aims to deliver comprehensive visibility into supplier risks.

Alpha Recon

Founded in 2021, Alpha Recon helps enterprises manage security risks comprehensively. Their software centralizes threat visibility, event tracking and program administration.

Alpha Recon serves global customers across sectors like finance and healthcare. Clients use the integrated platform to gain insights, coordinate response and demonstrate effectiveness. The software aims to optimize security operations end-to-end.

Cabrella

Founded in 2015, Cabrella focused on optimizing shipping and insurance for valuable cargo. Their platform analyzes routes, carriers and inventory data to reduce risks.

Cabrella serves global companies shipping precious goods. Users benefit from tailored coverage, real-time rate analysis and risk reduction. The software aims to deliver integrated shipping and insurance optimization.

Seerist

Founded in 2018, Seerist aimed to deliver real-time geopolitical risk insights to enterprises. Their platform continuously monitors news, data and other signals globally.

Seerist serves multinational corporations across sectors. Clients use the risk intelligence to guide global strategy and operations. The platform aims to provide an early warning system for geo-economic threats.

Solytics Partners

Founded in 2015, Solytics Partners delivers data and analytics solutions tailored for financial services and healthcare. Their offerings include analytics implementations, AI solutions and data products.

Solytics Partners serves global clients across banking, insurance, asset management and clinical domains. Customers leverage the expertise and solutions to extract value from data and accelerate digital initiatives. The services aim to enable data-driven decision making and innovation.

EcoVadis

Founded in 2007, EcoVadis brings sustainability ratings to procurement. Their software evaluates supplier policies, practices and metrics across ESG criteria.

EcoVadis serves global enterprises across sectors. Customers use the ratings and scorecards to monitor supplier sustainability and risks. The platform aims to provide actionable insights for sustainable sourcing.

SAI Global

Founded in 2004, SAI Global delivers standards and assurance solutions. Their offerings help organizations manage risk, achieve compliance and build trust.

SAI Global serves customers worldwide across sectors like manufacturing and retail. Clients rely on their expertise to navigate standards, regulations and ESG frameworks. The services aim to enable effective risk-based decision making.

Conclusion

As emerging threats become inevitable realities, the shortcomings of traditional risk management approaches are being exposed across sectors. Legacy providers simply lack the advanced analytics, real-time visibility, and quantitative modeling needed to help organizations prepare for and navigate today’s complex risks. This is fueling intense demand for a new generation of risk startups offering cutting-edge capabilities tailored to modern volatility.

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Top 21 customer service startups leading the way in 2025

Top 21 customer service startups leading the way in 2025

Top 21 customer service startups leading the way in 2025

February 17, 2025

World's leading customer service startups redefining customer experiences

As customer expectations evolve, new customer service startups rise to the challenge, offering solutions that not only address current service needs but also set new standards for excellence.

 From conversational artificial intelligence chatbots to help desk platforms that seamlessly integrate with multiple channels, these startups are developing products that aim to make every customer interaction effortless, efficient and enjoyable.

Top customer service startups

Complete list of the most innovative customer service startups that are worth knowing:

Sitecore

Founded in 2001, Sitecore is a software company that provides tools to manage customer experiences across websites, mobile apps, and other channels. Their flagship product is a content management system that lets marketing teams create, edit, personalize, and optimize digital content.

The Sitecore platform goes beyond basic CMS features to handle marketing automation tasks like email campaigns, social media posting, and lead management. All customer interactions get recorded in one centralized data hub to give a complete 360-degree view.

MadKudu

Founded in 2015, MadKudu is focused on leveraging data to enhance B2B targeting and sales efficiency. Their platform analyzes signals to profile and prioritize accounts.

MadKudu serves B2B companies across sectors like software and manufacturing. Customers integrate the technology to focus sales efforts on qualified accounts. The platform aims to optimize sales funnel ROI.

MaestroQA

Founded in 2019, MaestroQA helps organizations optimize customer service and success using data. Their software evaluates interactions and skills.

MaestroQA serves businesses across sectors like tech and retail. Customers gain insights to enhance CS team training, workflows and staffing. The analytics aim to inform customer experience optimization.

AfterShip

Founded in 2012, AfterShip helps ecommerce merchants deliver transparent, positive shipping experiences. Their software tracks orders and shipments.

AfterShip serves online retailers across sectors like apparel and electronics. Merchants gain data to proactively update customers and respond quickly. The platform aims to build delivery trust and loyalty.

Threekit

Founded in 2015, Threekit aimed to make online shopping more engaging through 3D product experiences. Their software generates interactive 3D models.

Threekit serves retailers, brands and manufacturers across sectors. Customers integrate 3D models into product pages and ads to demonstrate products digitally. This aims to drive consideration and sales.

Chattermill

Founded in 2016, Chattermill focuses on helping organizations optimize experiences using customer dialogue data. Their software synthesizes and evaluates conversations.

Chattermill serves global businesses across sectors like retail and technology. Customers gain a unified voice of the customer to guide strategies, processes and training. The analytics provide comprehensive CX intelligence.

SnatchBot

Founded in 2017, SnatchBot makes bot development accessible to organizations without relying on data scientists. Their visal editor enables drag-and-drop bot building.

SnatchBot serves global businesses across sectors like banking and retail. Customers use the bots to automate customer service queries and tasks. This aims to improve efficiency and consistency of routine customer interactions.

Timepoints

Founded in 2020, Timepoints helps organizations optimize experiences by capturing timely customer input. Their software creates and distributes surveys.

Timepoints serves businesses across sectors in Latin America. Customers gain on-demand customer insights to quickly address problems and guide strategies. The surveys aim to inform experience improvements across the organization.

Directly

Founded in 2016, Directly transforms customer service using AI-powered automation. Their platform responds to inquiries automatically using natural language capabilities.

Directly serves global enterprises across sectors like tech and retail. Customers integrate the AI to handle routine questions and tasks automatically. This aims to boost efficiency and consistency of customer interactions.

Careem

Founded in 2012, Careem aimed to build ride-hailing and delivery solutions tailored for the region. Their app matches riders with local drivers.

Careem serves customers across 100 cities in the Middle East. Riders access convenient and familiar transportation while drivers earn income flexibly. The app provides localized ridesharing.

Cognigy GmbH

Founded in 2017, Cognigy GmbH delivers an accessible enterprise-ready conversational AI tool. Their platform enables automation of interactions through voice and text.

Cognigy serves global businesses across sectors like finance and retail. Customers use the no-code platform to build chatbots and voice assistants handling thousands of queries. The AI aims to offer efficient, consistent customer service.

Assent Compliance

Founded in 2005, Assent Compliance are helping enterprises collect, analyze and act on supply chain data. Their platform centralizes supplier information and documents.

Assent Compliance serves global organizations across sectors like manufacturing and retail. Customers use the software to map supplier networks, identify risks and obtain audit evidence. The platform aims to provide supply chain visibility and compliance.

Cortex

Founded in 2018, Cortex makes advanced analytics available to organizations without data science expertise. Their no-code platform generates insights.

Cortex serves B2B companies across sectors like technology and manufacturing. Marketers use the software to analyze campaign, account and pipeline performance on the fly through an intuitive UI. This provides marketing intelligence.

Alice Labs

Founded in 2015, Alice Labs makes conversational AI accessible to organizations without technical resources. Their no-code platform automates interactions.

Alice Labs serves global enterprises across sectors like retail and insurance. Customers use the platform to build chatbots, virtual assistants and text workflows handling thousands of conversations. The AI aims to offer efficient, consistent customer and employee experiences.

iAdvize

Founded in 2010, iAdvize provides retailers with always-on customer engagement through conversational commerce. Their platform routes chat and voice queries to human agents.

iAdvize serves global retailers and brands. Customers integrate the platform to offer personalized, immediate shopping assistance. This provides an enhanced digital experience driving consideration and sales.

AnyDesk

Founded in 2014, AnyDesk offers a fast, secure remote desktop solution accessible from any device. Their software enables remote control and file transfer.

AnyDesk serves individuals and organizations globally. Users benefit from accessing desktops and managing servers remotely with low latency. The software provides reliable remote access and administration.

Roamler

Founded in 2011, Roamler offers a flexible crowdsourcing workforce performing tasks in the field on demand. Their platform assigns localized jobs to mobile workers.

Roamler serves global enterprises across sectors like retail and logistics. Customers distribute tasks like audits, QA checks and data collection to the on-demand workforce. This provides scalable field support.

Happy Returns

Founded in 2015, Happy Returns is focused on streamlining product returns for ecommerce merchants and shoppers. Their solutions include AI-powered software and drop-off return hubs.

Happy Returns partners with retailers across sectors like apparel and consumer electronics. Merchants utilize their services to make returns seamless for customers and cost-effective for their business. This aims to drive loyalty and sales.

Breeze Airways

Founded in 2021, Breeze Airways delivers a refreshing, customer-centric approach tailored for underserved routes. Their offerings focus on value, simplicity and efficiency.

Breeze serves leisure travelers in the US. Passengers enjoy low base fares, high flexibility and family-friendly amenities. The airline provides an uncomplicated, affordable option.

Lessonly

Founded in 2012, Lessonly offers an easy-to-use training platform for ongoing employee development. Their software creates bite-sized learning lessons.

Lessonly serves organizations across sectors like retail and financial services. Customers use the tools to create and deliver training content that builds employee skills. This aims to drive productivity and consistency.

Wrench

Founded in 2016, Wrench aimed to simplify auto repair and maintenance through mobile mechanics and online fleet software. Their platform schedules repairs and manages fleets.

Wrench serves consumers and fleet operators across the US. Customers book a mechanic on-demand or use the software to optimize fleet workflows. This provides convenient, centralized vehicle management.

Conclusion

With customizable options to suit businesses large and small, these customer service startups have great potential to pave the way for the next generation of customer experiences. Their success promises a future where high-quality customer service is the norm, not the exception.

Discover more creative startups that might interest you:

 

  • Successful travel startups innovating better trip experiences for digital-savvy travelers.

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