The retail industry is in a constant state of change. Although big-name brands like Macy’s and Amazon are focusing on innovation, it is the new, cutting-edge ideas and commerce concepts that are driving the industry forward.
Recently, Forbes released is “30 Under 30” list for retail and e-Commerce. It touts an impressive list of entrepreneurs who have addressed a myriad of different trends in retail. Below, the RTP editors share their thoughts on the winners, and which business concepts pique their interest.
Debbie Hauss, Editor-in-Chief: I am fascinated by an entrepreneur who wants to change the way we buy mattresses. At just 25 years old, Neil Parikh is the Co-founder and COO of Casper, a company touting proprietary sleep technology. Prospective buyers are welcomed to try out the mattress at home for up to 100 days before committing. And shipping is easier for Casper products compared to traditional mattresses. Casper products compress to fit into boxes that “fit through any door,” according to the company web site. I’m intrigued, but at $850 for a Queen-size mattress it will be interesting to see if this venture takes off. What’s more impressive about Parikh is that Casper is his second startup venture. Previously he founded a virtual consignment marketplace called Consignd.
Alicia Fiorletta, Senior Editor: As a fan of Into The Gloss, Emily Weiss’ story fascinated me. She started as a fashion assistant at Vogue, and started doing Into The Gloss as a side project. She went on to expand her following, generating up to 10 million page views per month. Now, she’s trying to fill a gaping hold in the beauty industry with Glossier, a beauty company that provides luxurious and affordable products. Over the past year or so, she has raised more than $10.4 million in funding. I respect Weiss for her tenacity, and her ability to take risks. Although she knew editorial, she believed deep down that she knew beauty more. I’m excited to see how her career evolves.
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Rob Fee, Managing Editor: I found myself most intrigued by Storefront co-founders Erik Eliason and Tristan Pollock. Storefront offers a solution that helps to fill empty store spaces. I see a lot of opportunity in this. Emerging brands and online retailers now have an enabling technology to help them find appropriate sites for a pop-up shop and explore brick-and-mortar. Building owners, meanwhile, have another tool to help fill unused spaces. I’d expect that shoppers also will benefit from increased variety and potential exposure to unfamiliar products. Seems like everyone wins.
Kim Zimmermann, Managing Editor: I’m a huge fan of Shark Tank, and the mantra of the “sharks” is to find a need that isn’t being fulfilled and fill it. That’s exactly what Chase Reed, a 16-year-old Harlem entrepreneur did with Sneaker Pawn. He buys and sells Air Jordans and other high-end sneakers. He recognized that sneaker fashion is always changing and he’s providing his customers with an opportunity to trade in their old kicks for some cash or get a deal on some vintage footwear.
Glenn Taylor, Associate Editor: Thumbtack Co-Founder Marco Zappacosta has helped build a bridge for people who want to get a task taken care of, but don’t always have a means to find the best people for the job. The platform varies from your typical job search site in that potential candidates can be compared to each other and have a quote provided on the spot. The benefit of this, is that the customer theoretically gets to find better service, while the professional has the opportunity to expand his or her business, potentially building future relationships.
Brian Anderson, Associate Editor: One of the biggest stand-outs from this list is Mark Daniel, co-Founder and CEO at Strut. The app is tapping into two of the biggest trends to come out of 2014 retail: Mobile shopping and creating communities within brands. The app has a simple, Tinder-esque approach to the shopping experience; and also allows users to create profiles and showcase their style in the Strut community. I feel as though Mark Daniel deserves his spot on the list; Strut are ahead of their time.
