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  • RedBus – Enjoy a cozy and comfortable bus travel with RedBus!

    Company Profile is an initiative by StartupTalky to publish verified information on different startups and organizations.

    With all the buzz that the millennials have with traveling and easy bookings, we had to have online booking portals that are easy as a button. Today, from airfare booking to bus booking, we have all arrangements for easy and fast online booking. One such company that revolutionized the bus travel industry is RedBus. In August 2006, Phanindra Sama, Sudhakar Pasupunuri, and Charan Padmaraju launched RedBus which is a multi-million-dollar startup.

    Now, traveling might be a necessity, but the aim varies from the need of delight to professional to adventure and many more. The available avenues for transport are many starting from airplanes to trains to metros and autos. But the foremost commonly used mode of transport remains to be BUS. While traveling from one city to a different city, private buses are operated by bus operators under the supervision of travel agents. With this arrangement there are certain hardships that the consumer faces, this can range from limited seats particularly within the seasons of festivals. But with online ticket booking, this is a completely new and effortless experience for the customer. Initially, we just had an online booking for trains and airplanes, which are now too predominant in the market. But the good news is that now we have several players in the market offering easy and efficient bus booking facilities to the consumer. However, the first and now the top bus ticket booking platform is RedBus.

    Company Name RedBus
    Headquarter Bangalore
    Sector Ticketing
    Founders Phanindra Sama, Sudhakar Pasupunuri, Charan Padmaraju
    Founded 2006
    Website redbus.in

    RedBus – About and how it works
    RedBus – Founders and Team
    RedBus – How did it start?
    RedBus – Name, Tagline, and Logo
    RedBus – Startup Challenges
    RedBus – Funding and Investors
    RedBus – Growth
    RedBus – Acquistion
    RedBus – Campaign
    RedBus – Awards and Recognition
    RedBus – Competitors

    RedBus – About and how it works

    RedBus is a web ticket booking platform that facilitates comfortable and affordable traveling to millions by providing a dynamic and efficient online ticket booking system. RedBus was envisioned to make traveling for Indians a very convenient and cozy experience. Hence RedBus offers a dynamic range of services which include the following:

    • Multiple Travel Options Across Thousands of Routes
    • Excellent Customer Support for solving travel issues
    • Low-cost and affordable tickets
    • Extra benefits like discounts, deals, and festive offers, etc.
    • M-ticket, E-ticket, and Counter ticket
    • Luxurious hotel services
    • Bus hirings
    • Pilgrimage tours

    The users can book tickets using the application and also customize the choices using the RedBus ticket booking application. Ticket booking across various bus types is available at this portal. It also facilitates users by providing exciting bus coupons, festival offers, etc. Other important features like availability of buses, seats, sort of bus and selection of the bus are available within this application.

    Also, the RedBus team developed a software package named BOSS for bus operators. This software provides smooth access and thorough knowledge of buses and seating allotments to the customer. And a seat seller which furnishes the knowledge to the agency.

    There are several other products at RedBus that make bus travel easier for Indian customers. Each product fuels the opposite and growing one product also leads to the growth of the others. At RedBus, they have call centers, an internet site and franchisees in Mumbai. With all of these arrangements in place, RedBus has been on the top of a highly fragmented bus industry and also taken on to shape it by aggregating information and centralizing.

    RedBus – Founders and Team

    The founders of RedBus are Phanindra Sama, Sudhakar Pasupunuri, and Charan Padmaraju.

    Phanindra Sama Co-Founder of Redbus
    Phanindra Sama Co-Founder of RedBus

    Phanindra Sama

    RedBus was co-founded by Phanindra Sama. He was employed at Texas Instruments and ST Microelectronics prior to joining RedBus. He has been employed by RedBus for around eight years. He completed his Electrical and Electronic Engineering BE with Honors from Bits Pilani.

    Sudhakar Pasupunuri Co-Founder of Redbus
    Sudhakar Pasupunuri Co-Founder of RedBus

    Sudhakar Pasupunuri

    RedBus was co-founded by Sudhakar Pasupunuri. His education was completed at BITS Pilani.

    Charan Padmaraju Co-Founder of RedBus
    Charan Padmaraju Co-Founder of RedBus

    Charan Padmaraju

    RedBus was co-founded by Charan Padmaraju. His education was completed at BITS Pilani. He was employed at Honeywell before joining RedBus.

    RedBus – How did it start?

    If you’re wondering as to how the idea of such a mind-boggling thing struck to the founder, Sama, then here is the story of how RedBus was actually born! All of this started when the founder Phanindra Sama was trying to travel from Bangalore to Hyderabad for Diwali vacation in the year 2005. And it so happened that he could not get a bus ticket to travel to his hometown. He wandered all around Bangalore city for a ticket that could take him home for the festival. But unfortunately, he didn’t get a single ticket. That very day, he came to know the disorganization in the system and the huge and unending communication gap between the two tiers of the whole system namely, bus operators and travel agents. Apparently, there was absolutely no transparency on the available seats and price of the ticket with regards to the date of journey, time and all other related variables. And everything related to the bus booking was done through phone calls, and if one wanted to do something with a ticket, they had to go all the way back to agents every time to book a new ticket, cancel, refund, or do a hundred other things.

    When he went through the same issues with ticket booking, Sama felt it was extremely clumsy and time-consuming. And after thinking about it, he came to believe that this could be solved by taking this whole process online. After discussing this new-born idea with his friends, three of the founders decided to enter the realm of the entrepreneurial ground even though they didn’t have entrepreneurial bugs initially. And that’s how RedBus was born.


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    RedBus Logo
    RedBus Logo

    The name “RedBus” is supposedly taken from the color of the Virgin brand, which was started by Richard Branson. This was because of the mastermind behind this venture, Sama was immensely fascinated with his autobiography. And so he wanted to have a color for his business. And because the color of the Virgin brand is Red, they were mutually fiddling on this name for the firm. There’s one more reason to name it RedBus that it is an online-based brand and for the common man’s convenience, the founders wanted an easy and at the same time, catchy name for their startup. So, finally, they named it RedBus!

    RedBus – Startup Challenges

    All the startups have their fair share of milestones that they have to cross before becoming number 1 in the industry. Similarly, RedBus had its own set of challenges. The challenges that they had to face to take RedBus to where it is today are as follows:

    1. Payment gateway issues for providing easy checkout facilities to the customer
    2. Propagating a similar working environment, culture, and value system across offices in different countries

    RedBus – Funding and Investors

    To date, RedBus has raised $10.1 million over the span of 14 years.

    Date Stage Amount Investors
    Sep 30, 2013 Angel $45.6K Danan Christadoss
    Mar 14, 2011 Series C $6.5 million Helion Venture Partners, Seedfund and other unnamed investor
    Jun 30, 2009 Series A $2.5 million Seedfund, Athera
    Jul 31, 2007 Seed $1 million Seedfund and other unnamed investor

    RedBus – Growth

    • Globally, RedBus has 8+ million customers,
    • 2300+ bus operators
    • 100 million trips are booked worldwide using the RedBus application
    • RedBus sold its stake to Ibibo for $135 million.
    • RedBus has operations across various countries besides India which are Colombia, Indonesia, Peru, Malaysia, and Singapore.
    • It currently sells around 220 million tickets/year(contract carriage buses).
    • RedBus is providing access to nearly 40,000 travel agents across the country
    • Also, the overall sector is growing at a CAGR of 35-40% per annum.
    • RedBus enjoys a huge network effect
    • Also, it witnesses high trust from bus operators because they are stuck to standard commissions and never asked for an increase based on increased volumes.
    • RedBus is recognized as an organized travel company in the country because it ensures a viable online presence by having call centers as well as franchisees.
    • RedBus is also very excited about BOSS installations in Bangladesh and Malaysia.

    RedBus – Acquistion

    On July 11, 2016, RedBus acquired one company, Busportal, for an undisclosed amount.

    RedBus – Campaign

    Redbus Campaign

    In order to position itself as the hub of intercity bus travel during the impending holidays and celebrations, RedBus debuted its first digital-first brand campaign on September 27, 2022, alongside its brand ambassador, Icon Star Allu Arjun. Bringing your loved ones and dreams closer with RedBus is the theme of two ad films that the world’s largest online bus ticketing company has released as part of the campaign.

    RedBus – Awards and Recognition

    The awards and achievements that RedBus backed in its journey of 14 years are as follows:

    • Phanindra became the second entrepreneur from India to join Endeavour.
    • The most innovative company from the business-standard.
    • The most trusted brand from the brand trust report.
    • Mobile innovation award from the eye for travel.
    • Phanindra Sama placed under “40 under 40” by Fortune India in 2014.
    • Phanindra was appointed as the CIO (Chief Innovation Officer) of TSIC (Telangana State Innovation Cell) on 10th November 2017.
    • Top 5 startup in 2010’ by Forbes magazine.

    RedBus – Competitors

    Though RedBus is the pioneer in the industry when it comes to online booking for buses, today it faces intense competition from other predominant market players. The top competitors that directly or indirectly pose cut-throat competition to RedBus are Trabol, TicketGoose, MakeMyTrip, Travelyaari, AbhiBus, My Trip Zone, Ibroad, Simplotel, Purebus, and OYO. Though it sold its stakes to Ibibo, the competition is better faced with combined resources and upgraded technology.


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    FAQ

    Who are the Co-Founders of RedBus?

    Phanindra Sama, Sudhakar Pasupunuri, Charan Padmaraju are the Co-Founders of RedBus.

    How is ticket cancellation done in RedBus?

    The majority of tickets are canceled online. Nevertheless, certain tickets can only be canceled by calling the call center.

    Who are the competitors of RedBus?

    Competitors of RedBus are Trabol, TicketGoose, MakeMyTrip, Travelyaari, AbhiBus, My Trip Zone, Ibroad, Simplotel, Purebus, and OYO.

  • The Top 10 Renewable Energy Companies Powering the USA

    With resources aplenty, the United States Of America is one of the many countries with abundant renewable energy sources. Despite the rising energy prices and demand brought about by the use of eclectic transportation, people within the USA continue to yield strong profits and benefits in terms of health and energy affordability.

    While the United States is known primarily for its tech boom, it does have a strong pocket of some of the topmost renewable energy startups. What was once a niche segment of the energy sector, renewable energy is now one of the important powerhouses within the startup sector.

    Thanks to the government’s enhanced emphasis on the energy sector, the US now houses some of the largest renewable energy companies in the world. Opportunities fuelled by immense potential, the USA is doing everything in its power to promote a sustainable future for the country.

    Renewable Energy Within the USA
    Top 10 Renewable Energy Companies in the USA
    Moxion Power
    Crusoe Energy
    Solstice
    Cherry Street Energy
    American Wind
    TPI Composites
    Tesla
    Green Fuel Technologies
    Alto Ingredients [Pacific Ethanol]
    Silicor Materials

    Renewable Energy Within the USA

    As we mentioned earlier, the USA is a country rich in resources and abundant energy sources at its disposal. As of 2022, solar, geothermal, and wind comprise of USA’s three primary renewable energy sources. Other additional renewable energy sources include hydropower and wood for biomass and biofuel.

    Thanks to the country’s continued efforts towards promoting a sustainable energy future, dozens of equal opportunities are now available within the renewable energy sector. The USA is now the 4th largest producer of hydroelectricity worldwide.

    Meanwhile, solar power too has increased its contribution to the country’s energy production by almost 2%. Apart from wind and hydropower, the USA, in recent years, has become a pioneer in solar thermal energy production, marking an additional source of renewable energy within the country.

    Since the 1800s, coal, petroleum, and natural gas were the three primary and widely used energy sources accessed the world. It wasn’t until the 1900s that hydropower and wood came into the picture. This completely turned the tide and made the US one of the major players in the renewable energy sector.

    Top 10 Renewable Energy Companies in the USA

    Before we dive into the different renewable energy startups in the USA, it is vital to understand the primary sources of renewable energy within the country. As of 2022, the major renewable energy sources in the USA are as follows:

    • Wind
    • Solar
    • Biomass
    • Geothermal
    • Hydroelectric

    The US currently meets all its energy needs and requirements through domestic production. In addition to domestic production, net imports primarily comprising petroleum account for just 4% of the country’s entire energy supply.

    Thanks to newly unveiled technologies such as fracking and horizontal drilling, companies can now access underground deposits which weren’t possible earlier. With the government’s assistance followed by an inspired public, renewable energy startups seem to have found a new haven in the USA.

    Amidst this heaven which is rich in resources and backed by the latest technology and governmental efforts, here are the top 10 renewable energy startups prevailing in the USA.

    Global Generation of Renewable Energy in Percentage as of 2020
    Global Generation of Renewable Energy in Percentage as of 2020

    Moxion Power

    Name Moxion Power
    Founded In 2020
    Headquarters Richmond, California
    Specializes In All-Electric Mobile Power and Energy Storage Solutions
    Website www.moxionpower.com

    Moxion Power - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    Moxion Power – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    Deemed the next generation of alternate power sources, Moxion Power is built on the idea that aims to support the construction industry, events, entertainment, EV fleets, government agencies, and so on. Located in California, Moxion power specializes primarily in mobile energy storage technology.

    Moxion Power develops zero-emission power generators that can be used to support off-road utilities while simultaneously being used for industrial purposes. In terms of off-road support, this Californian renewable energy startup manufactures temporary battery storage units that provide the electric power required for charging.

    Thanks to such temporary battery storage solutions, the company enables clients in construction, events, entertainment, and other places in an eco-friendly manner. Regarded as the pioneer of mobile energy storage systems, Moxion Power now has people never worrying about running out of power.

    Moxion is the first temporary battery storage unit manufacturing startup specializing in the electrical equipment rental business. The company guarantees that its manufactured batteries will have the same dimensions, run-time, and performance as that of a traditional diesel generator with the added benefit of being clean and eco-friendly.

    Crusoe Energy

    Name Crusoe Energy Systems
    Founded In 2018
    Headquarters Denver, Colorado
    Specializes In Offers Oil and Gas Companies a Fast, Low-Cost, and Simple Solution to Eliminate Natural Gas Flaring
    Website www.crusoeenergy.com

    Crusoe - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    Crusoe – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Crusoe energy aims to offer a simple and renewable alternative to natural gas by providing fast and low-cost solutions to eliminate the routine flaring caused by natural gas emissions. The company uses excess natural gas emissions left from all its energy operations.

    The company then uses this excess natural gas to power data centers and crypto-mining operations. Crypto mining has picked up the pace over the years. Governments and individuals alike are slowly moving towards mining cryptocurrency instead of just buying.

    However, crypto mining operations require a huge amount of energy which is not always possible in the harbor. Thanks to Crusoe Energy’s initiative, miners no longer need to worry about harnessing energy for their mining operations as the company has taken it upon itself to power these operations.

    In addition to crypto mining, the company also offers quick and cost-effective solutions to power numerous other computing operations, using stranded and excess energy and other renewable energy sources to make it all possible.

    With methane emissions slowly rising over the years, the company’s green initiative is contributing significantly towards reducing greenhouse emissions and keeping global warming within the 1.5-degree target set under the Paris Agreement.

    Directing the majority of their research and focus towards emerging methane emissions, Crusoe Energy is doing everything necessary to capture these emissions to power crypto mining rigs and other power data centers.

    Solstice

    Name Solstice Power Technologies, Inc.
    Founded In 2016
    Headquarters Cambridge, Massachusetts
    Specializes In Solar based Solutions
    Website solstice.us

    Solstice - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    Solstice – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    Thanks to the industrial revolution, the world was introduced to several new technologies that completely changed the way we live. However, the industrial revolution, ever since its introduction in the 19th century, has the western world completely hooked on carbon-emitting fuels such as oil and coal.

    And 2 centuries later, everything has finally caught up to us. This is where Solstice comes in with a mission to put clean and affordable energy within every American’s reach. Accordingly, the people at Solstice are working tirelessly to bridge the gap between private housing and their requirement for solar which at times remain unfulfilled for several reasons such as directional positioning, home structure, and affordability.

    Solstice helps create, set up, and develop a solar infrastructure within communities such as local municipalities allowing not just one but multiple households to have direct access to solar panels on the rooftops. Not everyone can afford to put up with solar.

    But with solstice’s infrastructure and continued efforts, every American can now have direct access to clean, renewable energy. Moreover, the company helps assist with policies concerning establishing new energy sources for interested communities.

    Combining infrastructure with progressive technology, Solstice is helping every American household receive clean and renewable energy at maximum affordability.


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    Cherry Street Energy

    Name Cherry Street Energy
    Founded In 2015
    Headquarters Atlanta, Georgia
    Specializes In Offers Reliable Solar Energy to Supplement Traditional Supply of Electricity
    Website cherrystreetenergy.com

    Cherry Street Energy - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    Cherry Street Energy – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    Based out of Atlanta, Georgia, Cherry Street Energy has completely changed Georgia’s energy market. Over the years, the world has reached a point wherein the societal, economical, and environmental advantages have witnessed a dip. This is when the world is slowly looking to incorporate solar energy wherever it can.

    This is where Cherry Street Energy is developing, financing, operating, and maintaining its unique photovoltaic (PV) systems at a price that ensures maximum affordability for its customers. To make this possible, Cherry Street Energy Energyring cities, organizations, and local institutions renewable energy sources.

    The company sells its energy solutions to every large-scale customer who is in need thus allowing them to gradually stabilize its energy rates and make a significant impact when it comes to reducing carbon emissions. Operating primarily out of Atlanta, Georgia, a major chunk of the company’s business is brought about by selling power to the city of Atlanta.

    Owing to the company’s immense growth and potential, the company received a massive investment of $50 million in August 2021 which is aimed primarily at increasing the company’s entire workforce and further widening its project capacity.

    American Wind

    Name American Wind Inc.
    Founded In 2014
    Headquarters Huntsville, Alabama
    Specializes In Production of Micro Ducted Wind Turbines (MDWT) / Production of Microturbines
    Website www.americanwindinc.com

    American Wind - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    American Wind – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    As the name suggests, American Wind is currently spearheading the turbine industry in the United States, bringing about a massive transition in the industry with their production of microturbines. Inverting the windmill approach, the company manufactures a much smaller and more convenient approach solely for the customers.

    The company specializes in the production of micro ducted wind turbines (MDWT). Instead of manufacturing and having large turbines on board, American Wind offers a much more direct and convenient solution that is fit from the point of use and allows one to generate and use power at any given point.

    Thanks to the company’s continued efforts and contribution towards finding and manufacturing sustainable energy sources, it was able to devise an MDWT with a 1 kW generator squeezed in just 3 inches of diameter. Although these solutions are small, they are extremely powerful and perfectly capable of creating maximum torque and speed.

    Through effective use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), American wind was able to devise a small yet highly powerful micro wind turbine that can create power through a larger range of wind speeds.

    TPI Composites

    Name TPI Composites Inc.
    Founded In 1968
    Headquarters Huntsville, Alabama
    Specializes In Providing Composite Wind Blades
    Website tpicomposites.com

    TPI Composites - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    TPI Composites – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    Wind marks one of the primary sources of renewable energy in the USA. Catering to the need, TPI Composites has been delivering powerful wind blades since 1968. However, the company started delivering composite wind blades since 2001. Having delivered over 75,000 wind blades over 5 decades, TPI Composites is now the US’s largest wind-blade manufacturer.

    In 2021, the company achieved a new high of accounting for over 32% of the country’s onshore wind blade count and breaking the $1.5 billion mark.

    Following a massive drop in wind energy prices in 2009, the company decided to increase its blades from 46 to 80 meters with experts believing it to reach the 100-meter mark by 2030.


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    Tesla

    Name Tesla Energy Operations, Inc.
    Founded In 2015
    Headquarters Fremont, California
    Specializes In Grid-Scale Battery Energy Storage, Solar Panels, Roof Tiles, etc.
    Website www.tesla.com/energy

    Tesla - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    Tesla – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    While Elon Musk’s dream venture is recognized widely for delivering highly efficient electric vehicles (EVs), it does have an impressive pocket of integrated renewable energy sources ranging from grid-scale battery energy storage, solar panels, roof tiles, and so on.

    The company offers a solar roof comprising glass solar tiles and a fitted home battery system for energy storage.

    Thanks to these lucrative energy-storage solutions, Tesla’s customers can now use the components on demand anytime anywhere. As of 2022, Tesla has installed 4.0 GW of solar over 480,000 rooftops across the USA.

    Green Fuel Technologies

    Name Green Fuel Technologies
    Founded In 1975
    Headquarters Ontario, Canada
    Specializes In Produces Fuel Supplements
    Website greenfueltechnologies.com

    Green Fuel Technologies Corporation - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    Green Fuel Technologies Corporation – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    Although the company is headquartered in Ontario, Canada, Green Fuel Technologies leads the “Clean Air Revolution” in the USA. Since 1975, the company has been delivering professional grade fuel-supplements that are safe, accessible, and cost-effective.

    Thanks to these fuel-grade supplements, Green fuel Technologies has contributed significantly towards the improvement of vehicle performance within the USA.

    Not only are the company’s products effective for mileage improvement, but their applications in vehicle fleets, cargo, transportation, industrial, and commercial operations also reached a new high towards the end of 2022.

    One of the company’s significant feats came in 2004 when it became the first to use modern “enzymatic hydrolysis” technology for the production of cellulosic ethanol.

    Alto Ingredients [Pacific Ethanol]

    Name Alto Ingredients [Previously Known as Pacific Ethanol]
    Founded In 2003
    Headquarters Sacramento, California
    Specializes In Low-Carbon Renewable Fuels and Ethanol Plants
    Website www.altoingredients.com

    Alto Ingredients - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    Alto Ingredients – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    Pacific Ethanol is the US’ leading producer of low-carbon renewable fuels running and operating several ethanol plants in the west and midwest. As of 2022, Pacific Ethanol has over 9 biogas refineries that are situated in proximity to ethanol consumers allowing them maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

    In addition to low-carbon renewable ethanol fuels, the company also specializes in producing other value-added products such as cellulosic ethanol, high-value alcohol for industrial purposes, hand sanitizers, high-protein feeds, and so on.

    Thanks to the 9 different biogas subsidiaries, Pacific Ethanol markets, produces, and sells more than 605 million gallons every year.

    Silicor Materials

    Name Silicor Materials Inc.
    Founded In 2006
    Headquarters San Jose, California
    Specializes In Manufacturing Solar & High-Grade Aluminum Products, and Low-Cost Solar Silicon
    Website www.silicormaterials.com

    Silicor Materials - Top Renewable Energy Startup USA
    Silicor Materials – Top Renewable Energy Startup USA

    Previously referred to as Calisor Inc, Silicor Materials specializes in manufacturing solar and high-grade aluminum products along with low-cost solar silicon. The company has its headquarters in San Jose, California with its R&D department in Berlin, Germany.

    The company’s low-cost solar silicon is designed explicitly to meet industrial requirements and serve as a cost-effective alternative to electronic grade (EG) silicon.

    With the help of solar silicon, PV manufacturers can now reduce costs and strengthen their efforts to meet their customer’s performance expectations.

    Not only does Silicor materials produce low-cost solar silicon, but the company’s high-strength, low-weight aluminum alloys are perfect for automotive, aerospace, and construction purposes.


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    Conclusion

    Thanks to the US Government’s continued efforts towards developing a sustainable future, the country has witnessed epic growth in the rise of renewable energy startups in recent years. If this is to continue, it can significantly reduce the country’s greenhouse emissions, energy imports, and the use of fossil fuels.

    With the help of new technologies, these renewable energy startups are now able to access deep underground deposits which were previously unavailable and too expensive to do so. This is everything we have to offer on our end. Let us know your views and feedback in the comments section below.

    FAQs

    What country ranked #1 in renewable energy?

    As of 2021, China ranks in first position in renewable energy with a capacity of 1020 gigawatts as per the information shared by Statista.

    Which are the big six energy companies?

    The big six are the United Kingdom’s largest retail suppliers of gas and electricity dominating the market. The Big six companies are British Gas, EDF Energy, E.ON, RWE npower, ScottishPower, and SSE.

    What are the top 3 renewable energy sources the US uses?

    The top 3 renewable energy sources the US uses are wind, solar, and geothermal.

    Which US cities are 100% renewable energy?

    Some of the US cities with 100% renewable energy are Burlington, Aspen, Centralia, Chelan Cty, Georgetown, Palo Alto, etc.

  • Morgan Stanley Success Story – Leading the Way in Global Investment Management and Financial Services

    Company Profile is an initiative by StartupTalky to publish verified information on different startups and organizations. The content in this post has been approved by the organization it is based on.

    One cannot ignore the fact that money doesn’t impact us. Banking and financial services are our everyday affairs. Today, companies that offer financial services have a broad category that can include many different types of businesses. Generally speaking, a business can be categorized as a financial services institution if it deals with finances, investment banking, and money management.

    With its headquarters in New York City, Morgan Stanley is American multinational financial services and investment management company. In this article, we will learn about Morgan Stanley, its founders, its startup story, its business model, its investments, and more.

    Morgan Stanley – Company Highlights

    Company Name Morgan Stanley
    Headquarters New York, USA
    Sector Financial Services
    Founders Henry Sturgis Morgan, Harold Stanley
    Founded 1935
    Website morganstanley.com

    Morgan Stanley – About
    Morgan Stanley – Industry
    Morgan Stanley – Founders and Team
    Morgan Stanley – Startup Story
    Morgan Stanley – Mission and Vision
    Morgan Stanley – Name, Tagline, and Logo
    Morgan Stanley – Business Model
    Morgan Stanley – Revenue Model
    Morgan Stanley – Challenges Faced
    Morgan Stanley – Mergers and Acquisitions
    Morgan Stanley – Investments
    Morgan Stanley – Growth
    Morgan Stanley – Awards and Achievements
    Morgan Stanley – Competitors
    Morgan Stanley – Future Plans

    Morgan Stanley Growth Over the Years

    Morgan Stanley – About

    Morgan Stanley is a financial services company that provides advice, capital origination, trading, management, and distribution for organizations, governments, and individuals through its affiliates and subsidiaries. The firm is divided into three main business sectors: Securities issued by institutions, wealth management, and investment management.

    Morgan Stanley raises money to assist organizations, institutions, and people around the world in achieving their financial objectives. As a global financial services provider, the company has a presence in more than 40 countries, serving clients like governments, institutions, corporations, and individuals. Through proper dedication and continuous delivery of first-class service, Morgan Stanley has remained a consistent industry leader over many decades.

    Morgan Stanley – Industry

    The largest and most liquid financial markets are found in the United States. The financial services industry in the US has grown at an exponential rate in the last few years. Along with this, global economic growth is also being influenced by the US finance and insurance markets. Furthermore, the global financial services industry is going to increase at a CAGR of 6% from 2020 to 2025, increasing its value from $20.49 trillion to $28.53 trillion.


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    Morgan Stanley – Founders and Team

    Morgan Stanley was founded in 1935 by Henry Sturgis Morgan and Harold Stanley.

    Henry Sturgis Morgan

    Henry Sturgis Morgan - Co-founder, Morgan Stanley
    Henry Sturgis Morgan – Co-founder, Morgan Stanley

    Henry Sturgis Morgan was born on October 24, 1900, in London, UK. He joined J.P. Morgan & Co. in 1923, the same year he received his Harvard degree, and worked there from 1928 to 1935 as a partner. He and Harold Stanley co-founded Morgan Stanley in 1935 as the Glass-Steagall Act forced the division of investment banking from commercial banking.

    Henry was married to Catherine Frances Lovering Adams, who was the daughter of the U.S. Secretary of the Navy, Charles Francis Adams III.

    Henry served as the Chairman and President of The Morgan Library & Museum. Along with this, he also served as a board member of J.P. Morgan & Co., General Electric, and Pullman Company. In addition, Morgan served as an OSS agent and a commander in the Naval Reserve during World War II.

    Henry Sturgis Morgan passed away on February 8, 1982, at the Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York.

    Harold Stanley

    Harold Stanley - Co-founder, Morgan Stanley
    Harold Stanley – Co-founder, Morgan Stanley

    Harold Stanley was born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, in 1885. He got his degree from Yale University in 1908. Harold Stanley’s career began in 1916 when he was appointed vice-president of the Guaranty Trust Company of New York’s bond division. Eventually, he spun off the department into the Guaranty Company, a separate and subsidiary securities company, where he collaborated with J.P. Morgan, Jr. Dwight Morrow, who was appointed the US Ambassador to Mexico, was replaced by Morgan’s invitation for Stanley to join his company as a partner in 1927.

    Apart from all of this, Harold Stanley was also a member of the Yale Club, the National Golf Club, the Racquet and Tennis Club, and the Links Club of New York. He served as the director of numerous organizations, including Shell Caribbean Petroleum Corporation.

    Harold Stanley did a lot of philanthropic activities. He oversaw the New York fundraising effort in 1940 to raise $1.5 million (or $29,013,000 in 2021) for the United States Commission for the Care of European Children, a non-profit that assisted young war refugees.

    James P. Gorman

    James P. Gorman - CEO and Chairman, Morgan Stanley
    James P. Gorman – CEO and Chairman, Morgan Stanley

    James P. Gorman is a prominent business executive who currently serves as the CEO and Chairman of Morgan Stanley, a leading global financial services firm. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Melbourne and an MBA from Columbia Business School.

    Prior to his current role, Gorman worked at McKinsey & Company and Merrill Lynch. He joined Morgan Stanley in 2006 as the President and Chief Operating Officer of the Global Wealth Management Group (GWMG).

    In January 2010, Gorman was appointed as the CEO of Morgan Stanley, and in 2012, he assumed the additional role of Chairman, where he continues to provide leadership and strategic direction to the company.

    Morgan Stanley – Startup Story

    In 1935, the original story of Morgan Stanley began with J.P. Morgan & Co, which served as its foundation. It was when the Glass-Steagall Act was passed, firms could no longer combine their commercial and investment banking operations under a single holding company. The Glass-Steagall Legislation, a part of the United States Banking Act of 1933 describes that commercial and investment banking companies should run separately. Due to this, J.P Morgan & Co. decided to go with the commercial banking business. Henry S. Morgan and Harold Stanley, among others, left J.P. Morgan & Co. as a result, joining other Drexel partners to launch Morgan Stanley. This is when the new story for Morgan Stanley began.

    It was on September 16, 1935, when the company officially began operations at 2 Wall Street in New York City, right next door to J.P. Morgan. For the United States Steel Corporation, which served as the lead underwriter, the company distributed 1938 US$100 million in debentures. In addition, the company earned the distinction of serving as the lead syndicate in the 1939 U.S. rail financing. To facilitate greater activity in its securities business, the company underwent a new strategy for reorganization in 1941.

    After many years around 1997, the company merged with Dean Witter Discover & Co., the spun-off financial services business of Sears Roebuck. Within a year, the company’s name was changed to “Morgan Stanley Dean Witter & Co.” To prevent hostility between the two businesses, the original name was chosen as a combination of the two predecessor businesses. For reasons unknown, “Dean Witter” was removed entirely in 2001, and the company’s name changed to “Morgan Stanley”.

    The combined company started expanding its international operations around 1999. John J. Mack, who was the company’s president and Chief Operating Officer, established a joint venture in India with a Mumbai-based financial services group, JM Financial.

    It is reported that Morgan Stanley was the largest tenant of the World Trade Center complex. It had offices spread across 35 floors of buildings 1, 2, and 5 of the complex. Sadly during 9/11, the firm lost over 13 employees. However, the other 2500+ employees were vacated safely.

    The company made acquisitions in the 2000s that allowed them to widen its financial operations. As part of a larger initiative to promote investment in initiatives that support economic, social, and environmental sustainability, Morgan Stanley announced in November 2013 that it would invest around $1 billion to help enhance affordable housing.

    Through many years, the company has invariably delivered top-notch financial services. Today, the company claims of having offices in more than 40 countries.

    Morgan Stanley – Mission and Vision

    Morgan Stanley’s mission statement is, “Morgan Stanley is dedicated to providing first-class service to our clients, in a way that reflects our commitment to creating a more sustainable future and fostering stronger communities around the world. In each line of business, we strive to demonstrate our belief in the power of transformative thinking, innovative strategies and leading-edge solutions—and in the ability of capital to work for the benefit of all society.”

    They have core values that they follow passionately: do the right thing, put clients first, lead with exceptional ideas, commit to diversity and inclusion, and give back. These values serve as the foundation for everything Morgan Stanley stands for.

    Morgan Stanley Logo
    Morgan Stanley Logo

    Morgan Stanley was known as “Morgan Stanley Dean Witter & Co” in 1997, as it was merged with the company Dean Witter Discover & Co. However, the company’s name was again changed to Morgan Stanley in 2001. The reason for changing the name was never revealed.

    Morgan Stanley – Business Model

    Morgan Stanley is a financial and investment banking company that offers services such as sales & trading, investment banking, investment management, prime brokerage, research, institutional consulting, wealth management, and private wealth management. Moreover, the company’s business segments are divided into three segments:

    Wealth Management

    Stockbroking, brokerage, and investment advisory services, market-making activities in fixed-income securities, financial and wealth planning services, annuity and insurance products, credit and other lending products, banking, and retirement plan service are offered by the global wealth management group. Under this segment, the company offers financial and wealth planning services to individuals and small to medium-sized businesses and institutions.

    Institutions Securities

    This segment by Morgan Stanley offers investment banking services like capital raising including underwriting of debt, and equity, and financial advisory services like mergers and acquisitions advice, reorganizations, real estate and project finance, and corporate lending activities and credit products. The clients include corporations, governments, financial institutions, and high-to-ultra high-net-worth clients. Institutional securities at Morgan Stanley is the most thriving industry.

    Investment Management

    Services like traditional asset management, including equity, fixed income, liquidity, alternatives and managed futures products, and merchant banking and real estate investing are provided by this business segment.

    Morgan Stanley – Revenue Model

    One of the most profitable business segments of Morgan Stanley is institutional securities. Other than this, the investment banking division of the company makes money by charging fees for advisory services like mergers and acquisitions and restructurings. In both mergers and acquisitions and initial public offerings (IPOs), the firm ranks highly on a global scale. In 2022, the company made a revenue of $53.7 billion.

    Morgan Stanley – Challenges Faced

    Just like any bank, Morgan Stanley faced challenges during the 2008 financial crisis. The firm lost more than 80% of its market value between 2007 and 2008, with its share price sliding by 57% in just four days. Despite these difficulties, Morgan Stanley has since recovered and remains a major player in the global financial services sector.

    Morgan Stanley – Mergers and Acquisitions

    Morgan Stanley has made many acquisitions since its inception. The most recent acquisitions are:

    Date Acquiree name Amount
    December 5, 2022 blooom
    January 19, 2022 Fusion Connect
    October 8, 2020 Eaton Vance Management $7 billion
    February 20, 2020 E-TRADE $13 billion
    March 3, 2019 Microlife Corp $302 million
    February 15, 2019 KSH Infra $49 million
    February 11, 2019 Shareworks
    October 2, 2017 Mesa West Capital
    October 9, 2015 CoAdvantage
    September 12, 2014 NEWSTAR $8.1 million

    Morgan Stanley – Investments

    Morgan Stanley has made various investments throughout the years. The most recent investments are:

    Date Organization Name Funding Round Money Raised
    March 2, 2023 Delhivery Post-IPO Secondary ₹9.5 billion
    Feb 2, 2023 Syngene Post-IPO Equity ₹11.9 billion
    Jan 9, 2023 Athulya Senior Care Private Equity Round ₹770 million
    Jan 5, 2023 Netskope Convertible Note $401 million
    Jan 4, 2023 HYNN Technologies Series D
    Dec 19, 2022 CyberCube Series C $50 million
    Nov 20, 2022 OPTT Health Pre-Seed Round $1.2 million
    Oct 21, 2022 Emler Swim School Private Equity Round
    Sep 29, 2022 Intersect Power Debt Financing $2.4 billion
    Sep 27, 2022 Vital Thin Film Materials Series B CN¥4.5 billion
    Sep 6, 2022 Clip Credit Facility $50 million

    Besides this, there are a few more diversity-based investments made by the company, the details are:

    Date Organization Name Funding Round Money Raised
    Aug 11, 2022 Stimulus Seed Round $2.5 million
    Jul 21, 2022 TomoCredit Series B $22 million
    Jun 2, 2022 Hourwork Series A $2.5 million
    Mar 28, 2022 Hourwork Series A $10 million
    Mar 24, 2022 Lillii RNB Seed Round $3.7 million
    Mar 23, 2022 Stimulus Seed Round
    Jan 27, 2022 NVISIONx Seed Round $4.6 million
    Dec 23, 2021 MedTrans Go Seed Round $1.5 million
    Nov 17, 2021 Cohesion Series A $15 million
    Aug 1, 2021 Presagen Seed Round $2.2 million

    Morgan Stanley – Growth

    Morgan Stanley has come a long way and evolved through many decades. The company was a pioneer in assisting blue-chip clients to access public markets to finance expansion and innovation throughout the 1950s and 1960s. It was in 1962, the firm claims to have developed the first practical computer model for financial analysis, ushering in a new era for the discipline. Later in the 1990s, the company went overseas by expanding its operations in countries like India, China, South Africa, and Russia.

    After the financial crisis during 2007-2008, the company struggled and faced quite challenges. In 2008, the company changed its status by becoming a bank holding company. In addition, the firm also made a deal with Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (Japan). The group agrees to invest $9 billion for a 21% stake in the company. This gave both companies to expand on a global scale.

    At present, the company is one of the top financial and investment banking companies in the USA and of, course internationally as well.


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    Morgan Stanley – Awards and Achievements

    Morgan Stanley has received the following awards and recognition:

    • Morgan Stanley was ranked among the top innovative workplaces in 2020 and 2021 by Fast Company.
    • Morgan Stanley was recognized by the Times which ranked the company fifth among the top 20 large companies.
    • Great Place to Work Institute, Japan based on the opinions of the employees and the corporate culture, ranked Morgan Stanley as the second-best company to work for in that country in 2007.
    • In 2004, Working Mother named Morgan Stanley as one of the 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers.
    • Morgan Stanley also achieved the Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality in 2016.
    • Euromoney magazine recognized Morgan Stanley with the Best Global Investment Bank Award in 2015.
    • Morgan Stanley was named the Bank of the Year by IFR in 2020 and the best global investment bank by Euromoney in 2021.

    Morgan Stanley – Competitors

    The top competitors of Morgan Stanley are:


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    Morgan Stanley – Future Plans

    With a revenue of $53.7 billion, Morgan Stanley is undoubtedly one of the leading global investment banks, employing more than 80,000 employees. The company plans to be more optimistic in terms of the stock market. It further aims to come up with a better business strategy in the areas of wealth management and investment banking. Its long-term goal is to amass $10 trillion in client assets.

    Morgan Stanley – FAQs

    Who started Morgan Stanley?

    Morgan Stanley was founded in 1935 by Henry Sturgis Morgan and Harold Stanley.

    Where is the headquarters of Morgan Stanley?

    Morgan Stanley’s headquarters are in New York, US.

    Who are Morgan Stanley’s top competitors?

    The top competitors of Morgan Stanley are Goldman Sach, Citibank, Wells Fargo, Raymond James, Bank of America, Credit Suisse, and Merrill Lynch.

    Who is the CEO of Morgan Stanley?

    James P. Gorman currently serves as the CEO and Chairman of Morgan Stanley.

  • 10 Best Call Center Software for Small Businesses 2023

    Exceptional customer service is paramount for any business to thrive, and the same is true for small businesses also. It is one of the most critical components to achieving growth and success. Call center software can help you manage customer inquiries and enhance customer satisfaction. Without proper call center software, you’ll always struggle to keep your customers happy and satisfied.

    Investing in call center software can help you meet these growing expectations and stand out from your competitors. Features such as automatic call routing, call recording, and real-time analytics can improve your customer service, increase efficiency, and ultimately boost your bottom line.

    But with so many options available, finding the right call center software can be a daunting task. That’s why in this article, we have provided the list of the best call center software that is pocket-friendly and best suits your needs. So don’t let your small business fall behind – take advantage of the benefits of call center software today.

    What Is Call Center Software?
    Difference Between Call Center Software and Contact Center Software
    List of Best Call Center Software
    CallHippo
    Aircall
    Channels
    Nextiva
    Convoso
    Zendesk talk
    RingCentral
    Freshdesk
    Net2Phone
    Cloudtalk

    What Is Call Center Software?

    Call center software is a type of software that is designed to help businesses manage their incoming and outgoing customer phone calls efficiently. Call center software typically includes a range of features that enable agents to handle customer inquiries, complaints, and support requests quickly and effectively.

    The key features of call center software include automatic call distribution, which helps to route incoming calls to the right agents based on factors such as skill level or availability.

    Other features such as call recording, call monitoring, and call analytics, enable supervisors to track agent performance and identify areas for improvement. It also allows callers to interact with a computerized system and be directed to the appropriate agent or department based on their needs.

    Difference Between Call Center Software and Contact Center Software

    Both software names can be used interchangeably to represent the software that provides customer service. But there is some minor difference between this two software. Below are a few points that differentiate call center software from contact center software.

    • Contact center software is omnichannel in nature, which means users can connect with the customer care representative via a different mode of communication. This can be a voice call, email, live chat, SMS, and social media messaging. While on the other hand Call center software provides interaction via voice calls only.
    • Call center software provides some additional features like interactive voice response, call recording, call monitoring, call analytics, and call routing. It becomes easier to transfer calls to different agents when you use call center software.
    • Call center software is mainly used by telemarketing companies or companies who want to promote their products or services. While contact center software is used by the service-based company to resolve customer queries and provide the proper solutions.
    A survey of top preferred channels used by customers looking for customer support as of 2020 data
    A survey of top preferred channels used by customers looking for customer support as of 2020 data

    List of Best Call Center Software

    Call center software typically includes features such as automatic call distribution, interactive voice response systems, call recording, analytics, and reporting tools. These solutions can be tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses.

    CallHippo

    Rating 4.3/5
    Website www.callhippo.com

    CallHippo - Call Center Software
    CallHippo – Call Center Software

    CallHippo is a telephony service provider that provides you with a virtual phone system that allows you to communicate with your customers over the internet. It is trusted by leading companies such as Amazon, Wipro, Byjus, Shopify, and more. The system includes features such as call routing, call recording, voicemail, IVR, call conferencing, and more.

    You can set up virtual phone numbers in various countries, which can be used to make and receive calls. It helps you to establish a local presence in different regions without having to physically operate there. CallHippo also integrates with various CRM systems and enables businesses to manage their customer interactions more efficiently.

    Features of CallHippo

    • The platform is accessible through a web browser or mobile app, which makes it easy for teams to stay connected on the go.
    • AI-based call routing feature helps to route the call via the best telephony provider to give the best customer experience.
    • It automatically switches your number to the country-specific number to increase credibility and trust.
    • It provides insights into each conversation that happens with the customers.
    • The call queuing feature allows customers to wait until the next customer care representative receives the call.

    Pros

    • Live chat customer support
    • Reasonable pricing
    • Easy-to-use UI
    • Wide range of CRM and other integration
    • Knowledge base articles and blogs
    • Robust analytics and reporting
    • A free trial is available

    Cons

    • Call recording has a separate cost in the bronze plan
    • The per-minute charge for outgoing calls

    Pricing

    Plan Pricing
    Basic Free
    Bronze $20/user/month
    Silver $30/user/month
    Platinum $50/user/month

    Aircall

    Rating 4.3/5
    Website www.aircall.io

    Aircall - Call Center Software
    Aircall – Call Center Software

    Aircall is a call center software to make, receive, and manage phone calls from anywhere, using a web or mobile app. It supports multiple phone numbers, to empower small businesses to easily manage their communications across different channels. Trusted by more than 15,000+ companies, it is consistently delivering top-notch service to its users.

    By using Aircall, you can enhance your customer service, improve your response times, and streamline your communications. This can help you save time and money while improving overall productivity and customer satisfaction. Additionally, it provides affordable pricing plans and excellent customer support to make it an ideal choice for small businesses looking for a reliable and cost-effective phone system solution.

    Features of Aircall

    • Power dialer feature that boosts the speed of calling in one click.
    • It provides brief information about the ongoing conversation before forwarding the call to the next agent using the warm transfer feature.
    • Customizable voicemail greetings and the ability to send voicemail messages directly to email.
    • Businesses can record calls for training purposes or to ensure compliance with industry regulations.
    • You can set up call queues to handle high volumes of incoming calls and ensure that no call goes unanswered.

    Pros

    • International numbers in 100+ countries
    • User-friendly interface
    • Integration with popular CRM, e-commerce, and helpdesk software
    • Knowledge base articles
    • Wide option for support
    • A free trial is available

    Cons

    • Call routing to mobile is a little bit clunky
    • Poor customer support

    Pricing

    Plan Pricing
    Essential $30/user/month
    Professional $50/user/month
    Custom Contact sales

    Channels

    Rating 4.5/5
    Website www.channels.app

    Channels - Call Center Software
    Channels – Call Center Software

    Channels is an affordable and user-friendly call center software solution that can help small businesses streamline their customer service operations. It empowers you with the ability to track important metrics such as call volume, wait time, and call duration. You can make data-driven decisions that can help improve customer service.

    With Channels, you can easily set up and customize your call center to suit your specific needs. The software integrates with popular business tools such as Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zendesk. This makes it easy to manage customer interactions across multiple channels.

    Features of Channels

    • It provides insights into the customer details whenever you receive any calls from customers.
    • You can record all incoming and outgoing calls, which can be used for quality assurance and training purposes.
    • It allows callers to navigate through a menu of options using their phone’s keypad which reduces call wait time.
    • Easy to customize the call button on the website to empower users to call with one click.
    • Unlimited outbound calling to US and Canada at no additional cost.

    Pros

    • The first phone number is free
    • 7-day free trial
    • Intuitive interface
    • Live chat support
    • The mobile app is available
    • Chrome extension is available

    Cons

    • Limited call history storage
    • No ticketing system

    Pricing

    Plan Per Month Pricing Per Year Pricing
    Plus $29/month $24/month
    Advanced $75/month $62/month

    Nextiva

    Rating 4.4/5
    Website www.nextiva.com

    Nextiva - Call Center Software
    Nextiva – Call Center Software

    Nextiva is a communication solution designed to streamline call management. Small businesses benefit from Nextiva Call Center Software in several ways. Firstly, it helps them handle high volumes of incoming calls efficiently, which can improve customer satisfaction and reduce wait times. The software provides valuable insights through advanced reporting.

    You can analyze call data and make informed decisions to improve customer service. One of the main advantages of Nextiva Call Center is its flexibility. It allows small businesses to scale up or down their call center operations as needed. It is user-friendly and requires no specialized training or IT support to get started.

    Features of Nextiva

    • Screen pop-up is enriched with valuable customer insights based on past interactions when anyone calls you.
    • It holds callers in a queue until the next available agent is ready to take their call.
    • IVR feature that guides callers to the information or service they need, without the need for human intervention.
    • Smart call routing feature that routes incoming calls to the most appropriate agent or department based on predefined rules.
    • The platform is easily accessible via web and mobile devices to manage call center operations.

    Pros

    • Automatic call distribution
    • Built-in CRM
    • Robust call analytics
    • Customer Satisfaction survey
    • Easy-to-use interface
    • Smart call routing

    Cons

    • Limited to inbound calling

    Pricing

    Plan Per Month Pricing Annual Pricing
    Business Communication Essential $30.95/user/month $27.71/user/month
    Business Communication Professional $35.95/user/month $25.46/user/month
    Business Communication Enterprise $45.95/user/month $32.96/user/month

    Convoso

    Rating 4.6/5
    Website www.convoso.com

    Convoso - Call Center Software
    Convoso – Call Center Software

    Convoso is designed to help small businesses improve their sales and marketing operations. It offers a range of features such as predictive dialing, automated lead distribution, call recording, and real-time analytics. It helps businesses streamline their outbound calling efforts and increase productivity.

    When you use this tool, you can efficiently manage your outbound call campaigns, automate repetitive tasks, and improve call quality by recording and analyzing customer interactions. The software also provides real-time reporting and analytics to help businesses track performance and make data-driven decisions.

    Features of Convoso

    • Preview dialer feature that allows agents to view a preview of customer information before reaching out.
    • It helps to streamline the inbound calling workflow by transferring calls to the best-suited agents with the feature of a predictive dialer.
    • The voice broadcasting feature allows you to promote your new product or service to your leads efficiently.
    • You can create automated responses that allow the virtual agent to interact with customers without the need for a live agent.
    • You can monitor live calls and provide feedback to agents through a whisper feature that only the agent can hear.

    Pros

    • Live chat support
    • Automated call distribution
    • Customizable dashboard
    • Powerful reporting
    • Easy-to-use interface
    • Demo is available

    Cons

    • Pricing is not disclosed

    Pricing

    Contact Sales

    Zendesk talk

    Rating 4.3/5
    Website www.zendesk.com

    Zendesk Talk - Call Center Software
    Zendesk Talk – Call Center Software

    Zendesk Talk is a valuable tool for small businesses looking to improve their customer service and support over the phone. Its user-friendly interface, robust features, and integration capabilities make it an excellent choice for businesses.

    The main benefit of Zendesk Talk for small businesses is that it enables them to provide personalized and efficient support to their customers. The software comes with features like call routing and automatic call distribution, which ensure that calls are directed to the right agent with the appropriate skills and knowledge. This helps small businesses save time and resources, as they can avoid transferring calls or putting customers on hold for extended periods.

    Features of Zendesk talk

    • It allows adding a call button on the website and app so that customers can contact you without any effort.
    • It seamlessly integrates with other Zendesk products.
    • You can set a maximum waiting time for your callers and allow them to request a callback.
    • Real-time analytics to measure the success and performance of your team.
    • You can monitor calls in real-time and record conversations with customers.
    • Calls are automatically directed to the right agent with the appropriate skills and knowledge to handle the customer’s issue.

    Pros

    • 90+ telephony providers
    • Live chat support
    • Simple and intuitive interface
    • Customer Satisfaction Survey
    • A free trial is available
    • Smart integration with other Zendesk products

    Cons

    • The call transfer process is cumbersome
    • Slow update

    Pricing

    Plan Per Month Pricing Per Year Pricing
    Suite Team $59/agent/month $49/agent/month
    Suite Growth $99/agent/month $79/agent/month
    Suite Professional $125/agent/month $99/agent/month
    Suite Enterprise $199/agent/month $150/agent/month

    RingCentral

    Rating 3.9/5
    Website www.ringcentral.com

    RingCentral - Call Center Software
    RingCentral – Call Center Software

    RingCentral software is a way small businesses can streamline their communication processes. It enhances customer service and increases productivity. With its flexible and scalable solution, RingCentral is a cost-effective and reliable choice for small businesses looking to improve their inbound and outbound calling capabilities.

    The all-in-one plan of RingCentral includes messaging, video, and phone also known as RingCentral MVP. It also provides a separate plan only for the phone facility but pricing is not disclosed.

    However, RingCentral’s outbound calling feature enables small businesses to make calls to customers or prospects using their business phone number, even when they are working remotely. This ensures that calls are made from a professional phone line, which helps to build trust and credibility with customers.

    Features of RingCentral

    • Give insights into your call activity, such as call volume and call duration, to help you optimize your communication strategy.
    • It helps to route calls to the appropriate team member or department based on the rules you set up.
    • You can record inbound and outbound calls for training purposes or to keep a record of important conversations.
    • IVR feature to reduce the workload on your employee by answering repetitive queries via recorded voice.
    • It allows you to send and receive text messages from your business phone number.

    Pros

    • Easy to set up
    • Device-independent
    • Built-in analytics
    • Multilingual IVR
    • Live chat support
    • A free trial is available

    Cons

    • Price is not disclosed for phone only plan
    • Some users reported call drops sometimes
    • Poor customer service

    Pricing

    Plan Per Month Pricing Per Year Pricing
    Essential $32.99/user/month $19.99/user/month
    Standard $40.99/user/month $27.99/user/month
    Premium $47.99/user/month $34.99/user/month
    Ultimate $62.99/user/month $49.99/user/month


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    Freshdesk

    Rating 4.0/5
    Website www.freshdesk.com

    Freshdesk - Call Center Software
    Freshdesk – Call Center Software

    Freshdesk is a customer support software that includes a call center feature to help businesses manage their incoming and outgoing calls. With Freshdesk, small businesses can set up a virtual phone system. It allows them to route calls to different departments or agents. You can also record calls for quality assurance, and create custom IVR menus to provide callers with self-service options.

    Freshdesk’s pricing plans are affordable for small businesses which makes it a cost-effective solution for managing customer support operations. Freshdesk is loaded with all the features which basic call software provides, plus some additional useful features.

    Features of Freshdesk

    • Call masking feature that hides your existing phone number with a different phone number.
    • Multi-level IVR that allows customers for self-service and helps to route the call to the right agents and department.
    • It helps you to connect with your customer on the go using the robust mobile app.
    • Customers will know their position in the queue while contacting the representative.
    • Call block feature blocks spam calls based on their location.
    • It can effectively distribute the call queue load to provide satisfaction to customers.

    Pros

    • Numbers available for 90+ countries
    • Live chat support
    • Seamless integration with other Freshworks products
    • Live call monitoring
    • Service level monitoring
    • Warm transfer feature

    Cons

    • Call flows are not too customizable

    Pricing

    Plan Per Month Pricing Per Year Pricing
    Free Rs0/user/month Rs0/user/month
    Growth Rs1199/user/month Rs999/user/month
    Pro Rs3399/user/month Rs2799/user/month
    Enterprise Rs5999/user/month Rs4999/user/month

    Net2Phone

    Rating 4.6/5
    Website www.net2phone.com

    Net2Phone - Call Center Software
    Net2Phone – Call Center Software

    The Net2phone uses VoIP technology, which means that calls are transmitted over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. This can significantly reduce long-distance and international calling costs. It is easy to set up and doesn’t require any hardware or software installation.

    The system can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it an ideal solution for small businesses that don’t have the resources or expertise to manage their own call center. Net2phone also offers advanced features such as speech recognition and artificial intelligence, which can help businesses improve their customer service.

    Features of Net2Phone

    • Provides seamless integration with other tools such as Slack, Zapier, Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, and more.
    • The auto attendant feature routes the call automatically to the right agents and departments.
    • You can easily create a welcome menu to greet your customers and provide a great experience.
    • It blocks spam calls to save your agents time and effort.
    • Gamification feature that helps to motivate the agents by providing badges and recognition based on their performance.

    Pros

    • Chrome extension is available
    • Unlimited international calling in 40+ countries
    • A free trial is available
    • Advanced reporting and analytics
    • The mobile app is available
    • API integration

    Cons

    • Poor setup and training process
    • Steep learning curve

    Pricing

    Plan Pricing
    Office $24.99/user/month
    Office Pro $26.99/user/month
    Office Power $29.99/user/month

    Cloudtalk

    Rating 4.3/5
    Website www.cloudtalk.io

    Cloudtalk - Call Center Software
    Cloudtalk – Call Center Software

    CloudTalk is a flexible and scalable solution for the calling needs of businesses. It allows you to make and receive calls from anywhere, using any device connected to the internet. You can easily handle high volumes of calls by placing them in a queue and notifying users when it’s their turn to take the call.‌‌

    You can configure the platform to meet your specific calling requirements, such as setting up call forwarding, voicemail, and call recording. As a business, you can easily add or remove users as needed, without having to worry about managing hardware or software installations. All this makes Cloudtalk an ideal solution for businesses with fluctuating call volumes or those that are growing quickly.

    Features of Cloudtalk

    • Provides local numbers in more than 160 countries for international calling.
    • The toll-free number benefits your customers to call you at no cost or nominal cost.
    • 3-way calling feature to allow any third person to join a call when required.
    • Automated outbound caller id that hides your agent’s private number and provides a country-specific local number.
    • Group ring feature that rings the phone of all agents so that no calls get answered.

    Pros

    • The mobile app is available
    • Call monitoring
    • Live chat support
    • A free trial is available
    • Workflow automation
    • Unlimited history logging

    Cons

    • Free inbound calling is not available when you choose certain high-cost country numbers.

    Pricing

    Plan Pricing
    Starter $25/user/month
    Essential $30/user/month
    Expert $50/user/month
    Custom Contact Sales

    Conclusion

    As companies continue to prioritize customer experience, the demand for efficient call center software is only expected to grow. Call center software providers are continually innovating and improving their offerings. This makes it easier for businesses to implement and benefit from the latest advancements in technology.

    In short, call center software has become an indispensable tool for modern businesses looking to enhance their customer service and drive growth. So choose the right tool from the above-mentioned tools and give thrust to your business.

    FAQs

    What is the best call center software?

    Some of the best call center software are Cloudtalk, CallHippo, Aircall, Channels, Nextiva, Convoso, Zendesk Talk, RingCentral, Freshdesk, and Net2Phone.

    What CRM tools are used in a call center?

    CRM tools in call centers stand for the tools used by call centers to enhance their customer experience in order to increase their efficiency. Some of the common CRM tools used are Salesmate, Pipedrive, Freshworks, etc.

    What is the difference between a call center and CRM?

    Call center software helps companies to enable the service of sending, managing, and tracking messages/calls to their customers. On the other hand, CRM helps businesses to keep a digital record of their customer interaction. Call center software is used in managing the flow of business and CRM helps in improving customer relations.

  • Tesla’s Marketing Strategies: Driving Innovation

    Tesla, Inc. is a transnational American corporation headquartered in Austin, Texas, that specializes in clean energy, artificial intelligence, and automobiles. Tesla develops and manufactures solar panels, solar roof tiles, electric vehicles (electric cars and trucks), battery energy storage systems for use at home or on a large scale, and other related goods and services.

    One of the most valuable corporations in the world and the most valuable automaker as of 2023 is Tesla. The firm sold the most battery-electric and plug-in electric vehicles globally in 2021, taking 21% of the battery-electric (purely electric) market and 14% of the plug-in market (which includes plug-in hybrids). The business creates photovoltaic systems and is a significant installer of them in the US through its subsidiary Tesla Energy. With 3.99 gigawatt-hours (GWh) installed in 2021, Tesla Energy is one of the biggest global suppliers of battery energy storage systems.

    Tesla surpassed well-known Japanese, European, and American companies including Toyota, Mercedes Benz, Honda, and Ford to become the most valuable automobile brand in the world in 2021, with an estimated brand worth of $42.61 billion.

    Tesla’s Target Audience
    Tesla’s Marketing Channels
    Tesla’s Marketing Strategies

    Tesla’s Target Audience

    The Tesla target market segmentation at this moment represents a relatively limited portion of the entire auto market, mostly consisting of wealthy, highly educated individuals and families with good incomes whose way of life is centered around minimizing their carbon impact.

    The reality that electric cars are still a relatively pricey and hence “luxury” product despite Tesla’s efforts to change the energy economy cannot be denied. Environmental worries about the usage of gasoline made from fossil fuels and financial concerns over the cost of petrol are the major factors driving customer interest in buying an electric car.

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    Since the introduction of Tesla’s first model, the Roadster, in 2008, the firm has continued to work toward a more general objective of possible Tesla market segments and making electric vehicles available and affordable to a broad range of customers.

    Tesla’s Marketing Channels

    Tesla brand communication puts an emphasis on the user experience in contrast to the conventional marketing strategies normally employed by auto firms, such as costly Super Bowl advertising and television commercials.

    This includes strategies like referral programs for customers, influencer marketing, and organic social media, all of which help the business achieve tremendous success with far lower marketing expenses than well-known automakers.

    There is currently a widespread network of company-owned showrooms and galleries, most of which are situated in well-known urban centers. Consequently, they have combined their direct sales technique with service facilities under their newly expanded retail model known as “Service Plus.”

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    Elon Musk is the CEO of Tesla, and his online presence is another effective marketing tool for the company.

    Tesla’s Marketing Strategies

    Tesla has gained worldwide recognition because of its zero-dollar marketing campaign. Apart from new product launches, Tesla has no marketing expenditure. This might seem absurd, yet it’s true. Tesla has adopted a variety of operational benefits and incorporated them into its marketing plan.

    Elon Musk Spends 0$ on Marketing- Tesla’s Marketing Breakdown

    There is no marketing or advertising division within the business. However, in 2021 it made $44 billion in revenues and sold 936,000 cars. Without paid advertising and a chief marketing officer, how is this even possible? The amazing Tesla Marketing Strategy is the key to it all.

    Let’s see how these strategies helped Tesla be a market leader.

    Status-Driven Product

    Tesla has followed a status-driven business strategy since its start as an electric vehicle manufacturer, giving it a distinct competitive edge. Status-driven goods entice people in rather than spending money to do so. The consumer receives a status for which they have no regrets about paying.

    This is a fantastic marketing tactic to promote a more expensive product. The status that comes with the purchase adds to the item’s value in addition to its physical attributes.

    Innovative Designs

    Tesla is totally committed to creating cutting-edge products that offer fantastic driving experiences. To do this, it spent about $2.59 billion on R&D in 2021. The project produced important self-promotional historical landmark designs in the EV industry.

    To monitor the surroundings and alert the owner to any possible dangers, Tesla’s sentry mode, for instance, employs external cameras. Another futuristic feature is the autopilot.

    The Tesla S’s 17-inch touchscreen display is stunning. It is referred to as the Tesla tablet. From maps to weather updates to a music player, it provides everything you need for a comfortable drive. Additionally, prospective buyers have the option to design and purchase a Tesla, customizing both the inside and outside of the vehicle to their preferences. These ground-breaking functions and personalization choices give Tesla a cult following that boosts its word-of-mouth sales.

    Tesla S Plaid Touchscreen Display
    Tesla S Plaid Touchscreen Display

    Simplified Customer Experience

    Salespeople commonly use smooth talk to persuade clients to make a purchase at the cost of the customer at car showrooms. Tesla is aware that this is terrible for business for its target group. In order to properly meet their demands, Tesla created a  complete online sales center.

    Tesla's Complete Online Center
    Tesla’s Complete Online Center

    Customers wishing to purchase a Tesla don’t have to go through a drawn-out in-person purchasing procedure, unlike typical auto sales. It is much easier to simply go online and purchase and customize a Tesla. Make interaction with your brand as frictionless as you can to make it easier for your clients to experience. Making your website more effective and user-friendly is one action you can take.

    George Blankenship, who also designed Apple’s retail space, created the online store for Tesla. The sales center streamlines expedite and provide convenience for buying an automobile. This gets rid of salespeople who are more concerned with getting a commission than serving clients.

    Additionally, potential customers may take a Tesla EV for a test drive. The business then offers a close-by alternative to customize their future vehicle online.

    Post-Purchase Customer Support

    Beyond waving consumers off after a sale, a business should be keeping up with them. Tesla is aware of this and has created an exceptional after-sales service system that even greets consumers at their doorstep.

    The Tesla ranger is a group of mobile, Tesla-trained experts that provide repair services at your residences, on the road, or wherever else suits you. Additionally, a software tool for automated self-diagnosis notifies users of problems as they arise. When that happens, a remote Tesla specialist can send instructions for a simple remedy or physically attend if the issue is more complicated.

    This avoids the agonizing hardship of hauling an automobile to a mechanic’s shop. Additionally, Tesla has a well-organized network of supercharging stations to provide electricity when your car’s battery is running low.

    Word-of-Mouth Marketing

    Beyond purchasing the experience, consumers are interested in brand storytelling. This is a savvy approach to conveying a corporate message. Tesla, though, found a way to use marketing stunts to make it into an exciting event. Additionally, their story was covered by the media, which helped it go viral across the world.

    Tesla Starman, a joint initiative between Tesla and SpaceX, raised the bar for marketing. The immense void was entered by a starman driving a roadster as he was propelled into space by a rocket. The worldwide incident that took the globe by storm and dominated the news for days.

    SpaceX Starman – Elon Musk Put a Car in Space

    Press personnel was given the opportunity to drive the Model S and write evaluations about it. Customers had to pay a $5,000 deposit, but the press had access to it for nothing.

    Enticing Referral Program

    Programs that reward customers who introduce new users to a company are a great idea. 2015 saw Tesla run striking referral marketing. This attracted a lot of referees who earned rewards like accessories, cost-free automobile maintenance, and software upgrades. A YouTube promoter seized the chance, generating over $12 million in referral sales and driving away with two next-generation roadsters.

    As word spread and Tesla gave away 80 new Roadsters to referrals for free in 2019, the initiative grew even further. The initiative had to be terminated by the EV multinational because of costs.

    Nevertheless, Tesla introduced fresh incentives that were alluring enough to draw in new buyers. For instance, your picture may be floating in space or you could witness a SpaceX rocket launch.

    Tesla’s referral scheme indirectly turns its consumers into marketers. As opposed to advertisers that blast adverts throughout the internet, potential customers are more likely to connect with external human users.

    Authentic Humorous Approach

    Every blog post and tweet from Tesla is genuine and human, from recognizing its errors and failures, Elon Musk famously claimed that founding the firm was “idiocy squared” to disclosing its top-secret master plan.

    The way Tesla approaches its products, from the model X celebration mode all the way up to sending the Roadster into space, reveals that the company’s staff enjoys themselves. Elon Musk, the company’s CEO, is in charge of establishing a connection between the brand and the general public through his engaging and lovely tweets.

    A Tesla client, for instance, requested that Tesla automatically adjust its steering wheel for a simple exit after the vehicle is parked. Within 24 minutes, Musk reacted, and through a software update, the suggestion was turned into a new feature. Elon Musk would interact with almost any Twitter user on Tesla and even topics outside of its commercial realm, from red-carpet celebrities to unverified accounts.

    Tesla’s Business Model – How Does Tesla Make Money
    Tesla works as a Direct-to-Consumer business model. Its car sales, services, and energy generation and storage make money for the company.

    Drive Marketing Effort

    People are becoming more conscious of the need for products that not only satisfy consumer desires but also address social and even personal problems. Many consumers have a strong affinity for Tesla’s aim to hasten the global switch to sustainable energy.

    Through its sustainability report, the EV firm informs the public of changes to products, operations, and workplace culture. Furthering its aim, Tesla made their electric vehicle patent available to the public. Competitors may use this to adopt their concept and join the environmental revolution.

    This obviously does not imply that you should post your company’s patent on social media. However, it is beneficial for business and industry growth to look beyond stifling rivals.

    Channels For Brand Exposure

    In addition to raising brand recognition through its social media platforms and website, Tesla has drawn notice for its collaboration with universities to provide its START program. The 12-week training course aids students in developing the skills necessary for employment in the production of electric vehicles.

    PR campaigns may be quite successful in showcasing your brand’s objectives and mission and winning the community’s support.

    Tesla’s marketing approach may be used as a special example of how to expand your firm while lowering marketing expenses. Ads are not awful, ineffective, or impossible to run on a tight budget, but entrepreneurs must first comprehend the problems that their target market is facing.

    Hope this helps in crafting your marketing strategy!

    FAQs

    What is the target audience of Tesla?

    The Tesla target market segmentation at this moment represents a relatively limited portion of the entire auto market, mostly consisting of wealthy, highly educated individuals and families with good incomes whose way of life is centered around minimizing their carbon impact.

    What are Tesla’s marketing strategies?

    Below is the list of a few notable marketing strategies followed by Tesla:

    • Status-Driven Product
    • Innovative Design
    • Simplified Customer Experience
    • Post-Purchase Customer Support
    • Word-of-Mouth Marketing
    • Enticing Referral Program
    • Authentic Humorous Approach
    • Drive Marketing Effort
    • Channels For Brand Exposure
  • Key Reasons Why Businesses Choose to Rename and Rebrand

    For decades, companies have been renaming and rebranding themselves for a variety of reasons. This process involves developing a new name and legally registering the entire business under that new name, commonly known as “rebranding.” Different companies have different reasons for renaming or rebranding. Some companies change their corporate branding, others update their products, and some even do both. For example, the well-known company Facebook changed its brand name to Meta, stating that it had changed its corporate brand but not the product brand.

    In this article, we will explore the various reasons why brands rename.

    Examples of Successful Companies That Rebranded
    Reasons Why Businesses Choose to Rename

    When Is It Time to Rebrand?

    Examples of Successful Companies That Rebranded

    The following are some examples of popular brands that have successfully renamed themselves:

    Facebook (now Meta)

    In the year 2021, Facebook announced that it has changed its company name to Meta. The reason for this change is that Mark Zuckerberg declared the new name as he uncovered plans to create a “metaverse”—an online environment where people can play games, work, and interact in a virtual atmosphere, often using VR headsets. He even stated: The word “meta” comes from the Greek term meaning “beyond”. To an outsider, a metaverse may look like an upgrade of VR, but some people believe it could be the internet of tomorrow.

    Grofers (now Blinkit)

    Grofers, a grocery startup founded in 2013, changed its name to Blinkit in response to increased competition in the q-commerce space. It promised its customers a 10-minute delivery.  This was the main reason for the brand to change its name.

    UrbanClap (now Urban Company)

    The company, formerly known as UrbanClap, changed its name to Urban Company. The company was established in November 2014. It offers different subcategories, including urban beauty, urban spa, and urban grooming. The company rebranded itself with the motive of creating a global footprint with a globally acceptable name.

    Even in the past, giants like Google and KFC changed their brand names. In 1996, Larry Page and Sergey Brin called their initial search engine “BackRub” (now Google), and KFC was previously called Kentucky Fried Chicken.


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    Reasons Why Businesses Choose to Rename

    Reasons Why Businesses Choose to Rename
    Reasons Why Businesses Choose to Rename

    Here are some common reasons why brands rename:

    Rebranding

    Rebranding is the process of changing the name, logo, or overall image of a company or product to create a new and updated brand identity. It is done to better connect with customers, differentiate from competitors, or address changes in the market. Sometimes, a company may feel that its existing brand identity no longer aligns with its mission, values, or target audience. In this case, they may choose to rename and rebrand their business to better reflect their new direction.

    • A shift in values: When a company’s values change, it may choose to rename its brand to better reflect its new direction. For example, Weight Watchers rebranded as WW to focus on overall wellness rather than just weight loss.
    • Target audience: If a company’s target audience shifts, it may choose to rename to better appeal to its new demographic. For example, Dunkin’ Donuts rebranded as just Dunkin’ to appeal to younger, on-the-go consumers.

    A company may have to change its name due to legal issues, such as trademark infringement or copyright violations.

    • Trademark infringement: If a company is found to be infringing on another company’s trademark, it may be forced to change its name to avoid legal action.
    • Copyright violations: Similarly, a company may have to change its name if they are found to be infringing on another company’s copyrighted material.

    Merger or Acquisition

    When two companies merge or one company acquires another, they may choose to rename the resulting entity to reflect the new ownership structure.

    • Combining two names: Sometimes, two companies will combine their names to create a new brand name that reflects their shared ownership. For example, ExxonMobil is the result of a merger between Exxon and Mobil.
    • Choosing a new name: Other times, the merged company will choose a completely new name to reflect its new identity. For example, in 2010, UAL Corporation and Continental Airlines completed the merger and changed the name to United Continental Holdings.

    Modernization

    A brand may choose to rename to modernize its image and appeal to a younger audience, especially if its existing name feels outdated.

    • Shorter names: Many brands are choosing to rename themselves with shorter names that are easier to remember and type. For example, Google’s parent company Alphabet was originally named Google Inc.
    • Catchier names: Brands may also rename themselves to create a catchier, more memorable name that is easy to remember by the customers.

    Geographical Expansion

    A company may choose to change its name when it expands into new geographical regions, to ensure that the brand name is relevant and recognizable to local consumers. For example, KFC is called PFK in Quebec, Canada.

    Conclusion

    Hence, there are numerous reasons why brands choose to rename or rebrand themselves. The ultimate goal is to achieve brand growth by reaching more customers and making profits in a highly competitive market. However, any brand looking to change its name or rebrand must be prepared for both the potential benefits and negative consequences. While a successful renaming can lead to increased profits and growth, it can also result in losing loyal customers and decreasing brand valuation. Companies should carefully consider their reasons for renaming and ensure that they are prepared for all possible outcomes before making any major branding decisions.

    FAQs

    Why do brands rename?

    Rebranding, modernization, merger or acquisition, legal issues, and geographical expansion are all common reasons for brand renaming.

    Some of the popular brands that have renamed themselves are Facebook (now Meta), Grofers (now Blinkit), UrbanClap (now Urban Company), Kentucky Fried Chicken (now KFC), and more.

    What is rebranding?

    Rebranding is the process of changing the name, logo, or overall image of a company or product to create a new and updated brand identity. It is done to better connect with customers, differentiate from competitors, or address changes in the market.

  • ArmorCode Inc.’s CEO, Nikhil Gupta, on the Benefits of Integrating Application Security and Vulnerability Management

    ArmorCode Inc., a security startup focused on unifying application security and vulnerability management, was founded in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic in July 2020.

    In a recent interview with StartupTalky, Nikhil Gupta, the Co-Founder and CEO of ArmorCode Inc., shared insights into the company’s plans, obstacles, and strategies. The intersection of the need for digital transformation and the rise in fraud attacks during the pandemic led Gupta to believe that software security would be critical, and this prompted him to start ArmorCode.

    In just two years, ArmorCode’s revenue grew by 500%, and Gupta attributes this success to the company’s Indian team, which has made a significant impact. Mr. Gupta also shared his vision for ArmorCode, including the company’s plans to invest heavily in engineering and go-to-market efforts with the funds they recently raised.

    Let’s take a closer look at Nikhil’s responses and see what we can learn from our conversation.

    StartupTalky:Could you share a small brief on ArmorCode so that our readers get to know what the company is about? And also, what made you want to start Armorcode?

    Nikhil: Armorcode is a security startup focused on unifying application security and vulnerability management . We started in the middle of COVID, in July of 2020. When COVID hit, as a serial entrepreneur, I knew there would be an opportunity to serve humanity in that calamity. When the world was going towards remote work, during COVID, the need for digital transformation rose sharply. And this prompted fraudsters to attack more, because even they were sitting at home. So that was the intersection, which made me believe that software security would be very important, which prompted me to start ArmorCode. Starting it in the middle of the pandemic has made all the difference, it gave us a head start which has translated into 40+ customers and close to 25% of those are Fortune 500 enterprises. Our revenue grew 500% in 2022 even when the overall tech space was impacted very badly by the economic downturn around the world. I am proud to say our Indian team has made a big impact in our success so far.

    StartupTalky: ArmorCode recently raised some funds. How do you plan to deploy these funds?

    Nikhil: We raised funds for two reasons. One is to accelerate our go-to-market. We have doubled our go-to-market team size. We also want to heavily invest in engineering so these are the two areas where we are using the raised funds.

    StartupTalky: Could you please explain why application security is so important?

    Nikhil: Today everything is software or in some way controlled by software. We use software for everything from Paytm and Bharat Pay, to other apps, all of these digital transactions and transformations require security. Software development has transformed in the last 20-plus years – previously new software was released once a year, and there was no use of open source. It was a very monolithic kind of application. Fast forward 20 years and now, 70 to 80% of the software is open source.

    Further, new software is being released weekly or even daily across complex environments, technologies, and architectures. Applications are increasingly moving to the cloud. And while software development has transformed in the last 20 years, software security has not. You still need over a dozen tools to just secure one application, none of which speak to each other, creating silos. Security teams struggle to understand where applications are deployed and who owns which part. Vulnerabilities arise across applications and infrastructure, but it’s painful to correlate and understand the context. That’s why it’s important to have a single platform like ArmorCode, which unifies and accelerates application security and vulnerability management.

    StartupTalky: What would you consider the value addition and differentiation that AmorCode has over the competition, in terms of ROI and growth for their businesses?

    Nikhil: Right now, the US is going through a difficult economic crisis and in this scenario, only two businesses will grow. One is, if I come to you and say I can increase your revenue from 1 crore rupees to 10 crores, if you give me two crores. The second is, if you’re spending 10 crores rupees on something, and I come and say, I can save you five crores, if you pay me two crores, you will agree to it. Those are fundamental businesses and ArmorCode helps with both types of businesses. Everything is moving to the digital plane and, in that particular scenario we are making the digital landscape secure, allowing companies to increase their revenue or top line.

    Secondly, when the market corrects, there are a lot of job losses and people want to rely more on automation. And that is what ArmorCode does. It helps save cost, thus reducing your cost.

    StartupTalky: What are some of the significant challenges that ArmorCode faced in the past year and how did you overcome these?

    Nikhil: All startups come with challenges. We’ve been fortunate in that , we grew 500% last year, while also expanding our team from 50 to 85. So, from a challenges perspective, we were born in Covid and are scaling during a downturn, so our focus has been on building a strong foundation with the head start we got by starting in the middle of the pandemic when other companies were waiting and watching. And that is why we received our Series A funding so seamlessly.

    StartupTalky: Are there some plans that you have for the India market? Could you quantify those?

    Nikhil: We are very bullish on the Indian market, across various fronts. We have two plans for the India market. Firstly, our engineering team is in India and we want to grow significantly and invest in R&D here. We’re also undertaking strong marketing and sales activities, back-end operations and customer services in India. So, we are betting big on India operations. We believe in taking care of people and if we take care of people, we know that the product will be good, and if the product is good, the business will be profitable.

    Secondly, we have one of the largest IT companies in India as our customer. Several of our customers based in the US also have back offices in India, especially when it comes to security. We are working with three of the largest global big four IT consulting firms based out of India, who want to offer software security through our platform to Indian customers.

    StartupTalky: What is your go-to-market strategy for ArmorCode and how are you planning to address the different categories and levels of businesses that you cater to?

    Nikhil: We are a marketing-led company and our go-to-market strategy is partner driven. So, we have Wipro and Tech Mahindra as our partners, on the global system interfaces. We have also partnered with a few of the big four consulting companies and are partnering with value-added resellers as well. We are also performing the role of a managed services security provider. While we are moving through the partner-driven route, we also have a strong direct go-to-market sales team. Currently, the larger deals are happening through our partners and smaller, mid-sized deals are being undertaken directly.

    StartupTalky: What would you consider are some of the trends and opportunities that are shaping the AppSecOps platform currently?

    Nikhil: Historically, there used to be three separate verticals – Vulnerability management, Application security, and DevSecOps. ArmorCode is the only platform which unifies all three verticals, which is a big trend right now. Platforms like ArmorCode AppSecOps, which can actually unify application security, vulnerability management and DevSecOps, are all following the trend.

    StartupTalky: What would be some of the challenges that make AppSecOps relevant in the market today?

    Nikhil: Any product today, especially in IT, has people, process and technology aspects. Here, we are taking the people-first approach. There are three main teams: the security team, the development team and the operations team, working on these products. The security team is incentivized to make things secure, which inherently makes things slower. And the development team is incentivized to release software faster. So, the development and security teams don’t see eye to eye. And our unique competitive advantage is that we have a deep understanding of all      three aspects. I started my career as an engineer at Bell Labs, then I worked in operations, following which I moved into security. Which is why, when we started this company, we took a people-first approach, rather than the technology-first strategy. We understood the people problem, then built technology to enable people to force multiply their efforts.

    StartupTalky: Digital innovation cycles are becoming shorter as we progress. How has this led to an increase in security risk? And how can this be combated?

    Nikhil: When you would have one release in a year, we would have three months to test the security of the software. Now, that development lifecycle has gone down to one week or one day , and we do not have enough time to fully vet the security. Secondly, for every application security engineer, there are over 100-200 developers. So, the ratio is extremely skewed, increasing the security risks further. These challenges can be combated with a unique  platform like ArmorCode.

    StartupTalky: What are the top impacting factors which are driving the global application security market growth? Is the technology we have today ready to handle the accompanying threats?

    Nikhil: From the trends perspective, when I started the company, application security was the fastest growing vertical, as per Gartner, at 32% CAGR. Now, ArmorCode is at the intersection of vulnerability management, DevSecOps and application security, with an almost $120 billion market. And this is enabling us to accelerate our momentum faster. Our readiness to help diverse organizations is visible from our client base, which includes the world’s largest entertainment company, the largest hospitality company, largest hedge fund, largest big four consulting firms and the largest industrial control systems, as well as digital-native, fast-growing companies. Our platform is ready for enterprise grade challenges. As a testament, we recently processed over a billion findings through our platform.

    StartupTalky: Your market is very B2B, so how do you cater to the consumers directly?

    Nikhil: There are two aspects to it. ArmorCode’s vision is to democratize software security. We believe that everyone from a Fortune 500 company to an individual startup should be using ArmorCode. We have started with the former, where we are catering to organizations with 100 developers or more, but as the world evolves, our vision is that anybody who’s starting a company should be able to use the ArmorCode platform, even if it has only one developer.

    StartupTalky:What are the opportunities that ArmorCode offers Indian tech professionals?

    Nikhil: Overall, it is a very exciting time for the Indian market, and ArmorCode is uniquely positioned, in the current scenario, to grow and expand faster than the market itself. Both my cofounder and I are of Indian origin and we have a huge engineering and development office in India. We are growing quickly, and while many companies are laying off employees, we are hiring. We have several openings as we speak.While 99% of the companies who start in the US, have their main development office in the US and use the India office for backend help, we take a lot of pride in saying that 100% of the code we use is written in India. We have built a world-class product, and the team is getting to work with some of the biggest brands. This is a huge opportunity for people to get on the ArmorCode rocketship and we are looking forward to tapping India’s talent during that ride.


    Author’s Note: We would like to express our deepest appreciation to Nikhil Gupta, CEO of ArmorCode Inc., for providing us with such insightful and informative responses. Your contributions will undoubtedly help our readers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the software security industry today.


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  • Microsoft’s Marketing Strategies: How They Conquered the Tech World

    Microsoft is a global technology company with headquarters in Redmond, Washington, in the United States. Microsoft was established in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen and is well-known for producing and marketing personal computers, consumer electronics, and computer software.

    The Windows operating system, Microsoft Office productivity suite, Xbox gaming system, Surface tablets, and Microsoft Teams collaboration software are some of Microsoft’s best-known products. Through its Azure platform, the firm also offers cloud services, and recently, it has concentrated on growing its mixed reality and artificial intelligence product lines.

    As of the beginning of 2022, Microsoft had a market valuation of more than $2 trillion, making it one of the biggest technological corporations in the world. Satya Nadella is the company’s current CEO; he succeeded Steve Ballmer in 2014.

    Microsoft’s Evolution
    Microsoft’s Target Audience
    Microsoft’s Marketing Mix
    Microsoft’s Marketing Campaigns
    Microsoft’s Marketing Strategies

    Microsoft’s Evolution

    In 1980, Microsoft signed a contract with IBM to provide the operating system for its new personal computer, which was to be called the IBM PC. Microsoft purchased the rights to a software program called QDOS (Quick and Dirty Operating System) and modified it to create MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System), which became the standard operating system for IBM-compatible personal computers.

    In 1985, Microsoft released its first version of the Windows operating system, which was designed to be more user-friendly than MS-DOS. Windows eventually became the dominant operating system for personal computers and is still widely used today.

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    Throughout the 1990s, Microsoft faced several antitrust lawsuits from the US Department of Justice and other organizations over allegations of anti-competitive practices, such as bundling Internet Explorer with Windows and restricting the ability of PC manufacturers to install other operating systems.

    In the 2000s, Microsoft expanded its product offerings to include consumer electronics, such as the Xbox gaming console and the Zune digital music player. The company also began offering cloud computing services through its Azure platform.

    Today, Microsoft is one of the largest and most valuable technology companies in the world, with a wide range of products and services that individuals, businesses, and governments around the world use.

    Microsoft has used several slogans to promote its products and brand over the years. Some of the company’s most well-known slogans include:

    • Where do you want to go today?” (1994-2002) – This slogan was meant to convey the idea that Microsoft’s products could help people achieve their goals and dreams by giving them the tools they needed to be productive and successful.
    Microsoft's Slogan (1994-2002) - Where Do You Want To Go Today?
    Microsoft’s Slogan (1994-2002) – Where Do You Want To Go Today?
    • Empowering us all” (2002-2006) – This slogan emphasized the idea that Microsoft’s products were designed to empower people to achieve their full potential, whether at work or home.
    Microsoft's Slogan (2002-2006) - Empowering us all
    Microsoft’s Slogan (2002-2006) – Empowering us all
    • Your potential. Our passion.” (2006-2011) – This slogan played off the idea of Microsoft products enabling people to realize their full potential, while also highlighting the company’s passion for creating innovative and user-friendly technology.
    Microsoft's Slogan (2006-2011) - Your potential. Our passion.
    Microsoft’s Slogan (2006-2011) – Your potential. Our passion.
    • Be what’s next” (2011-2014) – This slogan encouraged people to think about the future and the role that technology would play in shaping it while positioning Microsoft as a company that was at the forefront of this change.
    Microsoft's Slogan (2011-2014) - Be what's next
    Microsoft’s Slogan (2011-2014) – Be what’s next
    • Empowering every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more” (2014-present) – This current slogan emphasizes Microsoft’s focus on empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their goals, while also highlighting the company’s commitment to using technology to make a positive impact on the world.

    Microsoft Success Story – Founders, Business Model, Revenue Model, and More
    Microsoft is an American multinational technology company founded by Bill Gates & Paul Allen. Here’s a look at its business model and more.

    Microsoft’s Target Audience

    Microsoft has a broad target audience that includes both individuals and businesses. The company’s products and services are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of customers, from casual computer users to large enterprises. Here are some of the key segments of Microsoft’s target audience:

    • Individuals: Microsoft’s consumer products, such as Windows, Office, and Xbox, are designed to appeal to a broad range of individual consumers. These products are targeted at people who need software for personal use, such as word processing, email, web browsing, gaming, and entertainment.
    • Small and medium-sized businesses: Microsoft’s business products, such as Office 365 and Dynamics 365, are designed for small and medium-sized businesses. These products provide tools for productivity, communication, customer relationship management, and other business needs.
    • Enterprises: Microsoft’s enterprise products, such as Azure, Windows Server, and Microsoft Teams, are designed for large enterprises. These products provide tools for cloud computing, data management, collaboration, and other enterprise-level needs.
    • Developers and IT professionals: Microsoft also targets developers and IT professionals with tools and resources to help them build and manage software applications and IT systems.

    Microsoft’s target audience is diverse, spanning various demographics, industries, and geographies. The company’s products and services are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of customers, from individuals to large organizations.

    Microsoft’s Marketing Mix

    The marketing mix, also known as the 4Ps (Product, Price, Promotion, and Place), is a framework used in marketing to help businesses develop effective marketing strategies. Here is how Microsoft applies the marketing mix:

    1. Product: Microsoft offers a wide range of products, including software, hardware, and services. Some of its most well-known products include the Windows operating system, Microsoft Office productivity suite, Surface tablets, and Xbox gaming consoles. The company also provides cloud services through its Azure platform.
    2. Price: Microsoft uses a variety of pricing strategies for its products and services, depending on the target market and competition. For example, the company offers different pricing tiers for its Office 365 subscription service, with higher-priced plans offering more features and functionality. Microsoft also periodically runs promotional pricing campaigns for its products.
    3. Promotion: Microsoft uses a variety of promotional strategies to raise awareness and generate interest in its products and services. The company uses advertising campaigns, social media, and events to reach its target audience. Microsoft also works closely with partners and developers to promote its products and services through its channels.
    4. Place: Microsoft sells its products and services through a variety of channels, including online, retail stores, and third-party partners. The company also uses its own stores and online platform to sell its Surface tablets and other hardware products.

    Microsoft’s marketing mix is focused on providing high-quality products and services to its customers while using a variety of pricing, promotion, and distribution strategies to reach its target audience and drive sales.

    Microsoft’s Marketing Campaigns

    Microsoft has launched several successful marketing campaigns over the years to promote its products and services. Here are some of the most notable marketing campaigns by Microsoft:

    “I’m a PC” Campaign

    In 2008, Microsoft launched the “I’m a PC” campaign to counter Apple’s “Get a Mac” campaign. The campaign featured ads showing people of different ages and backgrounds using Microsoft products, highlighting the versatility and diversity of the Windows platform.

    I’m A PC – Microsoft Campaign

    “Empowering Us All” Campaign

    In 2013, Microsoft launched the “Empowering Us All” campaign to promote its Office suite of productivity tools. The campaign featured ads showing people using Office products to achieve their personal and professional goals.

    Empowering us all – Microsoft Campaign

    Surface Pro 3 Campaign

    In 2014, Microsoft launched a campaign to promote its Surface Pro 3 tablet. The campaign featured ads showing people using the Surface Pro 3 to replace their laptops, highlighting the device’s versatility and power.

    Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Launch Video

    “Do Great Things” Campaign

    In 2015, Microsoft launched the “Do Great Things” campaign to promote Windows 10. The campaign featured ads showing people using Windows 10 to achieve their personal and professional goals, highlighting the platform’s versatility and ease of use.

    “AI for Good” Campaign

    In 2018, Microsoft launched the “AI for Good” campaign to promote its artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives. The campaign highlighted how Microsoft is using AI to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges, such as environmental sustainability and healthcare.

    AI for Good – Microsoft Campaign

    Xbox Series X|S Launch Campaign

    In 2020, Microsoft launched a campaign to promote the launch of its Xbox Series X|S gaming consoles. The campaign featured ads showing people using the consoles to experience the latest and greatest in gaming technology.

    Xbox Series S – Launch Campaign

    Microsoft’s marketing campaigns have been successful in promoting its products and services to a wide audience, highlighting the company’s innovation, versatility, and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

    Microsoft’s Marketing Strategies

    Microsoft has employed various marketing strategies over the years to achieve its growth and success. Here are major marketing strategies that have helped Microsoft achieve its goals:

    • Developing innovative products: Microsoft has always focused on developing innovative products that meet the evolving needs of its customers. The company’s products, such as the Windows operating system, have become staples in the tech industry and have helped the company maintain its position as a market leader.
    • Building a strong brand: Microsoft has built a strong brand with a recognizable logo and tagline. The company’s brand is associated with innovation, reliability, and high-quality products.
    • Focusing on customer needs: Microsoft has always focused on meeting the needs of its customers. The company conducts extensive research to understand customer needs and incorporates feedback into its product development.
    • Investing in marketing campaigns: Microsoft invests heavily in marketing campaigns to promote its products and services. The company uses a variety of marketing channels, including television, social media, and email marketing, to reach its target audience.
    • Offering free trials: Microsoft offers free trials of its products to give potential customers a chance to try them before they buy. This strategy helps to build trust and increases the likelihood of a customer making a purchase.
    • Providing excellent customer support: Microsoft provides excellent customer support to ensure customer satisfaction. The company offers a range of support services, including online support, phone support, and in-store support.
    • Acquiring other companies: Microsoft has acquired several companies over the years to expand its product offerings and reach new markets. For example, the company acquired LinkedIn to enter the social media market.
    • Embracing new technologies: Microsoft has embraced new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing, to stay ahead of the competition and meet the evolving needs of its customers.
    • Brand partnerships: Microsoft has collaborated with a variety of different businesses to advertise its goods and services. For instance, to advertise its Windows operating system on its devices, the corporation has worked with businesses like Dell and Lenovo. To market its Windows operating system on its products, the corporation teamed up with Intel.

    Microsoft’s success can be attributed to its focus on innovation, customer needs, and brand building, as well as its willingness to invest in marketing campaigns and embrace new technologies.

    I hope this will enable you to apply Microsoft’s company growth strategies to your advantage.

    FAQs

    What is Microsoft’s target audience?

    Microsoft has a broad target audience that includes both individuals and businesses. The company’s products and services are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of customers, from casual computer users to large enterprises.

    What are a few remarkable marketing campaigns launched by Microsoft?

    Microsoft has launched several successful marketing campaigns over the years to promote its products and services. Here are some of the most notable marketing campaigns by Microsoft:

    • I am a PC Campaign
    • Empowering Us All Campaign
    • Surface Pro 3 Launch Campaign
    • AI for Good Campaign
    • X Box Series X|S Launch Campaign

    What are the major marketing strategies followed by Microsoft over the years?

    Microsoft has employed various marketing strategies to achieve its growth and success. Here are major marketing strategies that have helped Microsoft achieve its goals:

    • Developing Innovative Products
    • Building a Strong Brand
    • Focusing on Customer Needs
    • Investing in Marketing Campaigns
    • Offering Free Trials
    • Providing Excellent Customer Support
    • Acquiring Other Companies
    • Embracing New Technologies
    • Brand Partnerships
  • Insights from Ginesys CEO, Prashant Lohia, on the Future of Retail Software Solutions

    Recently, we had the opportunity to sit down with Prashant Lohia, the founder and CEO of Ginesys, to discuss his innovative approach to retail software solutions. As an experienced leader in the industry, Mr. Lohia has a wealth of knowledge and insights to share about the current state and future direction of the retail sector.

    In our conversation, he provided valuable insights into his company’s goals, vision, and strategies, which are transforming the way businesses operate in the retail space.

    StartupTalky: Kindly give us an overview of the company and its specialization.

    Prashant: Ginesys is a rapidly expanding retail technology company that serves over 1200 customers and has a broad reach across India, with over 50,000 users. Our focus is on providing technological solutions for retail businesses, having successfully supported retail businesses from start-up to IPO over the past decade.

    We have established ourselves as a premier, “Made in India” solution for ERP and POS, catering to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises. Currently, we offer a complete retail tech suite for omni retail – Ginesys One, which includes everything from ecommerce order management to ERP to POS including GST compliance.

    StartupTalky: Industry, target market size, market share?

    Prashant: We are working for the Indian retail industry. The Indian retail industry has become one of the most dynamic and fast-paced sectors, contributing over 10% of the country’s GDP and 8% of employment. India is the world’s fifth-largest retail destination, and by 2030, the retail sector is expected to reach a market size of US$1.8 trillion. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about changes in consumer preferences, habits, and attitudes, leading to a significant impact on the way people purchase and consume goods and services.

    Global retailers are adopting innovative business strategies to take advantage of new retail opportunities, and consumers no longer differentiate between offline and online channels. Major companies are experimenting with different approaches to design seamless retail experiences integrated across all channels and revenue models that enhance their customer value proposition.

    In light of all this we expect Indian retail tech to be a massive industry (billion dollars plus) with many players in it. Currently we are the largest player in the sector dealing with Indian customers.

    StartupTalky: What is the Ginesys solution for retail tech in 2023?

    Prashant: The retail landscape is running through an enormous evolution. Research has found that 95% of all purchases are predicted to take place through eCommerce by 2040. The conventional model of having just an unmarried physical store is gradually fading away with increasing customer expectations.

    This transforming trend is having a primary impact on the retail business value chain. The rise of omnichannel retailing has altered the way customers shop. Customers wish for a seamless experience across all channels. This sets the spotlight on retailers to deliver an integrated user background and win customer loyalty.

    Ginesys One was born from a simple belief: retail is complex and changing fast, growing companies need simplified integrated products that help them move faster. From modern cloud-based POS to an integrated omnichannel platform, from ERP to GST compliance, the Ginesys One solution promises to increase sales while optimizing retail operations.

    Backed by a unified support team and built on modern technology, the Ginesys One suite aims to future-proof a retailer’s business and helps them navigate the ever-changing world of retail. Right from the get-go, Ginesys One is expected to save integration time, effort and cost while achieving various omni use cases in a seamless manner.

    StartupTalky: What is the product you provide? How does the product work? What problems does it solve?

    Prashant: Our latest solution, the Ginesys One suite, provides retailers with a range of omnichannel applications including:

    Ginesys ERP: A comprehensive retail ERP system that serves as the core of Ginesys One, enabling dynamic decision-making, merchandising, procurement, warehousing, accounts, and distribution.

    Ginesys Desktop POS: A desktop-based application for in-store billing and inventory management.

    Zwing Cloud POS: A web-based POS application that also works on Android mobile POS.

    Browntape OMS: An eCommerce order and inventory management system that integrates with all marketplaces and webstore platforms. We also provide webstore development and marketing services under this division.

    EaseMyGST: A GST app for creating e-invoices, e-way bills, and filing GST returns in an automated manner.

    Ginesys BI: Complete BI tool and mobile dashboard for analyzing trends in data and discovery of data insights.

    Support for 3rd party integrations: The suite comes pre-integrated with various popular retail tech apps, marketplaces, and eCommerce suites.

    StartupTalky: What are the key strategies/hacks that you have been following since the beginning? You can also include any tie-up/partnership

    Prashant: We started with a simple hack of developing the products for the marquee customers, taking their live and continuous feedback. This ensured perfect product market fit in no time. Our passion lies in providing user-friendly solutions that are tailored to fit the needs and mindset of the Indian market.

    Combined with exceptional customer support, this approach helps to retain and delight our customers. Our business model is centered around customer retention, which is why we have always placed a higher priority on retaining existing customers rather than acquiring new ones.

    StartupTalky: How is Ginesys bridging the gap between retail and technology and what do you understand about retail management software?

    Prashant: The term “Retail Management Software” is broad and frequently used in the industry to encompass a range of products, from basic point-of-sale (POS) billing to accounting software like Tally to dedicated retail-specific solutions. Ginesys addresses the challenges faced by retailers in finding the right technology to meet their needs by providing a comprehensive solution for both online and offline retail.

    Moreover, we offer the entire suite of products as ready to use and as cloud SaaS subscriptions, which is a unique approach as most competing solutions require several months to implement. This allows retailers to go live quickly and efficiently within their tight timelines. This is especially true of ERP and BI where we are miles ahead of competition from the global ERP majors.

    StartupTalky: Where do you see your company 5/10 years down the road?

    Prashant: We are already the number 1 retail tech company in India and we hope that in 5-10 we shall be able to replicate the success of some of the other tech startups and go global. We have more products and deeper integrations planned for the retail industry. Overall we feel that retail is the most dynamic industry right now across the world so there will be a good demand for our products.

    Shankar Krishnamoorthy – Cofounder & CEO of Synergita Software | Startuptalker
    Shankar Krishnamoorthy is a co-founder and CEO of Synergita Software. In our recent interview he shared his story and journey of Synergita Software with us.

  • The Inspiring Story of Henri Nestle, Founder of Nestle

    Henri Nestle, the founder of Nestle, is a name that resonates with millions of people worldwide. His story is one of persistence, determination, and innovation, and it has inspired generations of entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams. From humble beginnings in Switzerland, Henri Nestle is the name that went on to revolutionize the food and beverage industry, creating one of the world’s most iconic brands. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the life of Henri Nestle.

    Henri Nestle – Biography

    Name Henri Nestle
    Birthplace Germany
    Born August 10, 1814
    Died July 7, 1890
    Occupation Confectioner
    Known for Founder of Nestle

    Henri Nestle – Early Life
    Henri Nestle – Change of Name
    Henri Nestle – Business Expansion
    Henri Nestle – Revolutionizing Infant Nutrition
    Henri Nestle – The Idea of Nestle Logo
    Henri Nestle – Legacy Maker

    Nestle: Dominance Over The Food Industry

    Henri Nestle – Early Life

    Henri Nestlé was a Swiss-German entrepreneur who founded the Nestlé company, one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world. Born in Frankfurt, Germany in 1814, Nestlé moved to Switzerland as a child and began his career as a pharmacist’s assistant. His early interest in nutrition and the health benefits of food led him to develop a new type of infant food that would revolutionize the industry and help reduce infant mortality rates in Europe.

    In 1867, Nestlé invented a milk-based baby formula known as Farine Lactée, which was made from cow’s milk, wheat flour, and sugar. The product was an instant success and soon became a popular alternative to breast milk for infants. It was particularly popular among working-class families who could not afford a wet nurse, and it helped reduce the number of infant deaths from malnutrition.

    Despite the fact that Nestlé and his wife were childless, they were aware of the high newborn mortality rate. Justus von Liebig’s efforts in making an infant formula would have been known to Nestlé. Furthermore, fresh milk was not always available in major cities, and upper-class women began to see breastfeeding as an “unfashionable” alternative.

    Infant food was a major breakthrough in the 19th century, as it was the first time a food product had been created specifically for infants. The product was highly successful and soon gained popularity throughout Europe.

    Henri Nestle – Change of Name

    Heinrich Nestle changed his name to Henri Nestlé after swiftly learning the language of his chosen homeland. However, integrating into the local society was not easy, and he had to settle for temporary residency status for decades. He was also in a dangerous financial position, since his vast, inconsistent product variety offered no genuine economies of scale, and his modest manufacturing facility was far from industrial-scale mass production.

    Henri Nestle – Business Expansion

    The success of Farine Lactée inspired Nestlé to expand his business and he began to develop other food products, such as condensed milk, which he sold under the Nestlé brand name. Nestlé company continued to grow and expand throughout the 20th century, acquiring other food and beverage companies and diversifying its product line. Today, Nestlé is one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world, with operations in around 190 countries.


    Nestlé—The Largest Food & Beverage Company
    Founded by Henri Nestlé in 1866 Nestlé is the world’s largest food and beverage company in terms of revenue. Know more about its business model, revenue etc


    Henri Nestle – Revolutionizing Infant Nutrition

    Nestlé administered his innovative infant formula to a days-old newborn who was very ill and not anticipated to live during the testing period. The infant healed rapidly, and word of the “wonder product” spread swiftly across the Lake Geneva area. The product was avidly purchased by midwives, mothers, and nursemaids, and Nestlé was flooded with orders. In 1868, 8,600 tins were manufactured, followed by 670,000 in 1874 and over a million the following year. Nestlé goods expanded from Vevey to become a worldwide phenomenon. Only seven years after the company’s founding, in 1874, 18 nations had their own distribution networks and Nestlé representatives.

    Nestle Logo
    Nestle Logo

    Henri Nestlé was able to develop a global brand with its own logo in just a few years. The Nestle family coat of arms, which means “small nest in the Swabian dialect, inspired the bird’s nest brand. Nestlé created an emotional bond with his newborn formula by filling the nest with three open-beaked chicks being fed by their mother.

    Henri Nestle – Legacy Maker

    Henri and his wife Anna Clémentine Thérèse Ehemant, much to their dismay, had no children of their own and spent every free moment working in their factory. After eight years, they were unable to continue. In 1875, Nestlé sold his company to his business associates in a deal that included his name, the bird’s nest trademark, and his signature as quality assurance. Nestlé lived the latter years of his life as a wealthy landowner, clothed in white and chauffeured about the vineyards and along the beaches of Lake Geneva, spending summers in Glion and winters in Montreux.

    “The temperature is ideal, laurel still grows, the view is breathtaking, and there are several inns. The telegraph, gaslighting, and the post all signify contemporary civilization without its faults; in summary, I don’t believe there is a more beautiful spot on the planet to spend one’s life in peace “Nestlé wrote of Glion, where he retired on the cliffs above Lake Geneva.

    As is largely acknowledged, his legacy is today a global multinational food and beverage company. The headquarters of Nestlé is still in Vevey. To commemorate the company’s 150th anniversary, a museum was constructed on the site of the original factory in 2016. It’s called the ‘Nest,’ and it’s a fascinating universe of experiences intended to honor Henri Nestlé, the company’s founder and pioneering entrepreneur, who died in Glion on 7 July 1890.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the story of Henri Nestle is not just one of a successful businessman, but also of a man who genuinely cared about his customers’ well-being. Nestle’s focus on quality and innovation allowed him to build a brand that would stand the test of time and become synonymous with quality food and beverage products worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire entrepreneurs and business leaders to this day, reminding us that with hard work, dedication, and a passion for innovation, anything is possible. As we celebrate the incredible achievements of Henri Nestle, let us also remember that it is the people who create the brands, and it is their vision and hard work that truly make the difference.

    FAQs

    Who was Henri Nestle?

    Henri Nestlé was a Swiss-German entrepreneur who founded the Nestlé company, one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world.

    When did Henri Nestle sell his company?

    In 1875, Nestlé sold his company to his business associates in a deal that included his name, the bird’s nest trademark, and his signature as quality assurance.

    When did Henri Nestle die?

    Henri Nestle died in Glion on July 7, 1890.