Successfully wrapping up our second Latin America-Singapore Connects this year!
Enterprise Singapore, together with our partners organised the FFX Retail Demo Day 2024 to coincide with NRF 2024: Retail's Big Show Asia Pacific. We worked with the Singapore Fashion Council to host a delegation led by FFX Group LTD, which comprised some of the largest retail companies in #Brazil.
Seven of our Singapore fashion and #retailtech#startups pitched to the delegation at The Cocoon @ Design Orchard, with innovative solutions ranging from sustainable textiles made from pineapple waste by Nextevo™, to a Portuguese-speaking AI customer support bot by WIZ.AI. We rounded off the meeting with a vibrant networking session.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Her Excellency Eugenia Barthelmess, Ambassador of Brazil to Singapore and Ting-Ting Zhang 张婷婷 of the Singapore Fashion Council for joining us at the event and delivering the opening addresses.
Stay tuned for more updates on future Latin America-Singapore Connects events!
Alteredverse Pte Ltd | Graymatics | Makeit Platform | Nextevo™| ViSenze | WIZ.AI | Xinterra
Clarence Hoe | Geraldine Yeow | Alfreda Lee | Zara Karimi | Kai He Ong
SHEIN investing is not the answer, this activity continues to allow them to produce low quality items at increased quantities as always , governments are having money thrown at them to ignore the root of the problem , Overproduction, which leads to overconsumption. Really change is stopping overproduction of unnecessary items. Investing in recycling and circularity is great is if stop making more things, SHEIN model is based on the mass production of items , looking at trends and creating appealing , but low quality items and marketing them a mass audience .
What about if SHEIN took that money and produced less, higher quality made to last items ?
What if SHEIN took that money and paid the people who produced the clothing a fair wage ?
What if SHEIN took that money and improved the safety of their factories ?
What is SHEIN took that money and showed the world what SHEIN really is ?
SHEIN is a machine that mass produces poor quality knock offs of the clothing that are on trend , floods the internet with ads making their low quality product look amazing , Only once you receive , it doesn't look like it does in the ad, but it was cheap and you will only wear it once anyway so no big deal right?
SHEIN use low qualities materials , with dyes that have been proven to damage the human body , SHEIN do not pay their workers a fair wage , over work them , people working 80 hours a week to try and earn the same wage as those working in other industries , in unsafe environments.
SHEIN is one of the biggest contributors to the textile waste problem in the world ,if SHEIN and TEMU are allowed to continue to operate like this then we are doomed to a world of waste mountains.
We can not allow SHEIN to throw a tiny amount of the profits they make at what is essentially greenwashing . Governments need to say NO to SHEIN, consumers need to say NO to SHEIN and policy makers need to act to stop SHEIN overproducing.
Say #NOtoSHEIN
SHEIN TO INVEST €250M IN EU AND UK AHEAD OF POTENTIAL LONDON STOCK LISTING: SHEIN has announced a €250m investment to "support British and European brands" over the next five years. The initiative includes a €200m Circularity Fund aimed at "advancing circularity solutions" in the fashion industry.
The fund will invest in start-ups working on textile-to-textile recycling and also back mature start-ups ready to scale innovations.
An additional €50m will support local brands, designers, and artisans, including initiatives like the SHEIN X designer incubator programme and onboarding to SHEIN’s Marketplace platform.
Donald Tang, SHEIN’s executive chairman, claimed the company is committed to reducing the fashion industry’s environmental footprint and supporting local entrepreneurship in the UK and EU.
OUR STORY: https://lnkd.in/dFKFs7yy#Sustainability#Innovation#FashionIndustry#CircularEconomy#Entrepreneurship#Investment#UK#EU
They say "Every company and individual that doesn't prioritize innovation fails to adapt and eventually becomes obsolete."
After in-depth conversations with MENA brands and distributors, a fascinating pattern emerged.: While the market is booming (growth exceeding 15% year-over-year!), some businesses are getting left behind.
The culprit? A lack of focus on innovation. They're clinging to old models, leaving them vulnerable in this fast-paced industry. The competition is fierce!
Are these businesses destined to become relics of the past? Not necessarily! There are e-commerce brands absolutely crushing it with cutting-edge strategies.
But how do you win the race in a market overflowing with innovation? Share your experiences in the comments!
Guess what? 😓
SHEIN has launched a €200 million “Circularity Fund” in the EU and the UK.
Aka - they have just launched their largest greenwashing campaign yet 👇
They claim the fund will invest in startups and other businesses in the EU and UK that are driving circular solutions...
🫣 But all I can see is an attempt to generate positive press within the investment community ahead of a highly unpopular IPO with the public.
Additionally, Shein says they will allow more European and UK artists and designers to join the Shein X design incubator programme, which helps emerging designers commercialise their creations through Shein's production, marketing, and logistics.
😢 In other words, it's a more formal way of profiting from independent designers' work
Ultimately, the fund appears to mask Shein's true intentions: to further penetrate the European and UK markets, leverage local design talent, and gain favour with investors.
😓 There is no mention of reducing production, curbing consumption, or making their products less disposable
Please share your thoughts by commenting below or resharing if you agree!
𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝟐𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯
1. Relay 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 $𝟏𝟎 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠
Relay, a London, UK-based provider of a tech-enabled delivery network for e-commerce, raised $10M in Seed funding.
The round was led by Project A Ventures and Prologis.
The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its business reach.
2. Vistas Media Capital 𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐬 $𝟏𝟎 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥
Media investment #entity Vistas Media Capital based in Singapore has reportedly received funding worth $10 million from Middle Eastern investment group Kitara Capital.
This is the first investment for the company, according to Abhayanand Singh, CEO of Vistas Media who was speaking to a media house. He added that the #funds will be directed towards developing, producing, financing, and distributing Indian content across platforms both digital and theatrical globally.
3. JCBL Group 𝐢𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐬 $𝟐.𝟓 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 Herby Angel 𝐟𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠
Ayurvedic and organic personal care brand, Herby Angel, secured $2.5 million in its initial funding round from JCBL Group. The investment is earmarked for bolstering business expansion, technological enhancements, diversifying the product line, intensifying research, and development efforts, and boosting #marketingstrategies.
Since its inception in January 2023, Herby Angel has employed an omnichannel approach, selling through both online platforms and traditional distribution models, optimizing sales outlets to maximize returns on marketing #investments .
4. Circle Sportswear 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 € 𝟒 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐀 𝐟𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧
French sustainable athletic brand Circle Sportwear has secured € 4 million in a series A #funding round led by Alter Equity. This funding round aimed to facilitate research and development on bio-sourced textiles and enhance the brand’s distribution network.
Founded by former L'Oréal executive Romain TREBUIL in 2020, the circular sportswear brand plans to use this investment to open its first proprietary retail store in Marais. The store’s debut in February aligns strategically with the release of the highly anticipated SuperNatural Runner shoe in April, followed by the launch of the Legend marathon line slated for the summer, guaranteeing the brand’s presence during the Paris Olympics in July.
𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 Corporate Valuations 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
#news#newshighlights#updates#newsupdates#transactions#valuation#venturecapital#fund#BusinessValuation#investments#sales#growth#startup#marketingstrategies#entity
👀 Just when you thought it was all wrapped up, there’s more in store! After winning the LVMH Innovation Award 2024 in the Omnichannel & Retail category at Viva Technology, our adventure with LVMH is anything but over!
We are excited to announce that we are part of the LVMH’s La Maison des Startups at STATION F.
This opportunity will provide Glanceable with several strategic benefits such as:
🚀 Cutting-edge innovation: We gain access to a vibrant community of innovators, ensuring our technology remains advanced and competitive.
🧠 Access to industry leaders: Being part of an ecosystem that provides invaluable exposure to industry insights and trends that can help our strategic direction and product offering.
💡Streamlined processes: Using shared resources and expert mentorships speeds up our development and enhances operational efficiency.
🌎 Expanded reach: Networking within this community opens up new market opportunities, potentially leading to expansion into new sectors or geographical areas.
A new milestone for Glanceable - so, what’s next? We’re all ears and can’t wait to see what unfolds!
#Productivity#Innovation#startup#Glanceable#LVMH#StationF#LVMHInnovationAward#VivaTech
Calling all entrepreneurs for this year’s Vogue Singapore Innovation Prize ✨
If your business has a footprint in ASEAN and falls under one or more of the three mentioned categories, get your applications submitted to have access to an incredible wealth of expertise and resources.
Who can apply for the Vogue Singapore x BMW Innovation Prize?
Any fashion or beauty businesses that fall under one or more of the following categories:
♻️Businesses that champion sustainability and drive towards a circular economy
💫 Businesses that employ technology or innovations in new and novel ways
🌎Businesses that re-think current models, systems or products to better serve our society and planet
“Creatives can help make innovation a reality. We need their mindset and their vision to help show us what is possible,” says Lauren Bartley, the chief sustainability officer at Ganni A/S, who will be one of the key mentors at this year’s #VogueSingapore x BMW Group Innovation Prize 2024. Alongside her joins an ever-expanding list of global industry leaders who are involved in the fourth iteration of the #VogueSingapore Innovation Prize.
The Innovation Prize is seeking applications from fashion or beauty entrepreneurs and businesses that have a footprint in ASEAN, and fall into one or more of the following categories:
• Businesses that champion sustainability and drive towards a circular economy
• Businesses that employ technology or innovations in new and novel ways
• Businesses that re-think current models, systems or products to better serve our society and planet
This iteration marks our largest set of prize entitlements to date, in addition to an increased monetary prize of SGD$20, 000, the winner will receive media support from #VogueSingapore, a 1-year complimentary membership at the Singapore Fashion Council, pro bono legal consultation with Gibson Dunn, a leading global law firm and first-hand feedback from global industry leaders and introductions to potential investors for funding. Courtesy of #VisitMonacoMonaco Government Tourist & Convention Authority, the winner also walks away with an all-expenses-paid trip to Monaco for an innovation-packed itinerary including mentorship sessions, workshops, investor meetings, and events.
The lineup of laureate speakers, mentors and VIP jury members also includes Alexis Bonhomme, Dr. Amanda Parkes, Bettina von Schlippe, Ciara Byrne, Corey Moran, Cyril Foiret, Deeps D., Gaurav Gupta (GG), Jessica Chapplow, Lauren Bartley, LEANNE ELLIOTT-YOUNG, Liz Bacelar, Mark Guiducci, Nima Abbasi, Renzo Vitale, PhD, Dr. Stella Clarke, Ting-Ting Zhang 张婷婷 and Zachary Wieder.
To find out more about this year’s iteration and how to apply, click here: https://lnkd.in/g_9g8DchBenoit BADUFLEZhi Heng YEWChoy Teh
🌟 Calling all Retail and Supply Chain Enthusiasts! 🛍️🌐
In today's fast-paced business landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential. 💡 Let's dive into some valuable insights from an AMA session at Included VC and explore how these can empower your journey in the world of retail, supply chain, and sustainability. 🚀
🔥 Who May Find These Insights Invaluable? 🔥
Entrepreneurs: Discover how to navigate the changing dynamics of contract manufacturing and explore opportunities to disrupt the market.
Supply Chain Professionals: Explore emerging trends in supply chain transparency and how luxury brands are utilizing RFID technology.
Retailers and Consumers: Gain insights on sustainability and how conscious consumer choices can make a difference.
Startup Enthusiasts: Learn about innovative business models and tech-driven solutions that can shape the future of retail.
💬 Key Takeaways 💬
🏭 Contract Manufacturing Norms: Contract manufacturing is becoming the norm, with many manufacturers boasting robust safety programs. The real game-changer lies in crafting a compelling marketing story at the front end.
🍽️ Food Industry Challenges: The food industry, in particular, grapples with safety challenges, making transparency a critical factor.
🚚 Emerging Market Logistics: Navigating logistics in emerging markets can be a rollercoaster ride, especially for international shipping. Authenticity checks can pose challenges.
🔍 Supply Chain Transparency: Luxury companies are paving the way by implementing RFID tracking and monitoring for goods. However, most ideas in this space are still in their infancy.
🌿 Retail and Sustainability: In the retail landscape, consumers can contribute by purchasing second-hand items and practicing mindful consumption. They can do that by focusing on needs over wants. Concepts like "Buy Now, Sell Later," as pioneered by companies like Croissant, offer new market opportunities.
🚀 Startups in Retail: Startups in the retail sector can compete by exploring innovative consumption models. For instance, D2C branding takes time but creates brand stickiness. Tech-driven approaches, such as clothing rental services, can seize market share and address waste and product return challenges.
A heartfelt thank you to Olivia Mark at daphni for sharing these valuable insights. Your insights are invaluable, and we appreciate your contribution to the ongoing discussion in the world of retail, supply chain, and sustainability.
#RetailTrends#SupplyChainTransparency#Sustainability#StartupInnovation#IncludedVC
Vivatech #2 LVMH Start Ups contest
The LVMH group, same as previous years, awarded start-ups 🌎 👀 🚀
The awarded verticals and winners:
1. Omnichannel & Retail (Glanceable)
2. Excellence in Operations (Authena)
3. Employee experience, inclusion & diversity (HERALBONY)
4. Immersive digital experiences, winner among all (FancyTech)
5. Sustainability & Green Tech (Aectual)
6. Image and Media for brands (Ircam amplify)
Below you can listen to Bernaurd Arnauld, LVMH CEO , during the award ceremony
Some messages:
. We are a family business
. We work with 75 advanced start-ups and we have invested in them for years (Eg Google, Netflix)
. Start up mentality is close to the group's values:
1. Quality
2. Creativity
3. Business spirit: efficiency, EXECUTION is KEY to success and "making ideas work"
4.Give "meaning" to what we do, care for people, diversity
As 2024 Olympic Games sponsors we see athletes with the same success mentality as start-ups. 🗼 💪
The previous year's winner was also mentioned: ChatLabs
In another session, the LVMH team shared the acceleration program process:
1. Listening (LMVH needs & challenges) 💡
2. Sourcing (Innovation ecosystem)
3. Selection (+15k Start ups)
4. Acceleration (Collaboration) 🎢
The group's acronyms apply to the criteria: Luxury fit, Value Proposition, Market potential & Human Sinergy
They developed the LVMH Lab 👩🔬 👨💻 🏪
A physical retail space where they test POCs from different start-ups, integrating them into the customer journey ❤️
LVMH Olympics:
https://lnkd.in/deNVPjEF#LVMH#startups#ecosystem#intrapreneurs#innovation#POCs#acceleration#visuallatina#titanseven#shopper#commerce#phygitalexperiences#scaleup#innovateordie#retailinnovation#omnichannel#curation#accelerationMorgan MaoNicolas MaudetMichel TjoengHedwig HeinsmanMegumi KobayashiCharles DogninNathalie BirocheauMassimo VolpeNir Manor 倪瑞博Nicolás PimentelGuadalupe CanoCesar ValPancho Dondo
📈 Looking to scale your innovation strategies?
🔎 Learn how The Warehouse Group (TWG), the largest general merchandise retailer in New Zealand, scaled its design thinking practices across the organization, sharing repeatable processes that helped teams understand their customers and design products and experiences to meet their needs.
With Miro, TWG is able to fastly deliver the products and offerings their customers demanded, creating a more sustainable future for their customers.
Watch the full story: https://lnkd.in/epNuRtUp