#120 Bevz: A Tech Bro Walks Into a Corner Store...
Sep 27, 2023
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Jason Vego, founder of a high conversion rate SaaS platform for convenience stores, pitches Bevz and discusses challenges of introducing technology to the industry. They share their personal story, funding history, and marketing strategies towards Asian Americans. The podcast also explores equity negotiation, retailer and brand partnerships, and fundraising progress.
Bevz, a startup focused on selling software to convenience stores, has achieved impressive metrics including a 95% conversion rate from free trial to paid subscription and 99% monthly retention.
One of Bevz's main challenges is the resistance of convenience stores to adopt new technology, but their deep understanding of the industry, self-reliant onboarding process, and partnerships with major convenience store chains have contributed to their success.
Deep dives
Bev's: Selling Software to Convenience Stores
Bev's is a startup that is focused on selling software to the convenience store industry. Although convenience stores are typically resistant to technology, Bev's has built a SaaS platform specifically designed for this industry. The platform helps convenience stores stock the products their customers want and facilitates easy in-store and online sales. With 330 stores using the platform and impressive metrics such as 95% conversion from free trial to paid subscription and 99% monthly retention, Bev's is aiming to acquire 2,000 convenience stores and reach a $3 million run rate ARR before raising their next round. They have already raised $1.6 million and are considering a new round at a valuation of $15 million.
Overcoming Challenges of Selling to Convenience Stores
One of the main challenges Bev's faces is the reluctance of convenience stores to adopt new technology. However, Bev's advantages lie in its deep understanding of the industry and its customer base. The co-founder of Bev's is an experienced convenience store owner, giving the team unique insights into the needs and preferences of these businesses. Additionally, Bev's has developed a self-reliant onboarding process through a SaaS platform, which minimizes the need for extensive training and support. This approach has led to a high conversion rate and impressive customer retention.
Revenue Streams and Business Model
Bev's primarily generates revenue through its SaaS platform, charging convenience stores $79 per month for its services. Additionally, Bev's has advertising partnerships through which brands can advertise their products through the platform, generating an average monthly revenue of $44,000. The company aims to continue growing its customer base through sales-driven strategies, relying on inside sales as the primary customer acquisition method. They have also entered into partnerships with major convenience store chains like 7-Eleven, Circle K, Shell, and Chevron.
Fundraising Success and Future Plans
Bev's has successfully raised $3.1 million in total, with $2.25 million committed in the current round and an additional $1.3 million from a new term sheet. The valuation has increased from $9 million to a potential $15 million, reflecting the company's growth and potential. The additional funding will be used to continue expanding the customer base, develop new product integrations, and reach profitability. Bev's has demonstrated its ability to effectively navigate the challenges of selling software to convenience stores and is well-positioned for future success.
Jason Vego wants to disrupt an industry so old school he has to sell door to door. Yet somehow his SaaS platform for convenience stores boasts a 95% conversion rate from free trial. Another number comes up in The Pitch Room though, Jason’s ownership percentage in Bevz. Will this founder win over the investors or get the door slammed in his face?
To learn more about Jason's startup and the investors featured on this episode, check out the Bevz show page. And for a deep dive on the companies featured on the show, subscribe to The Pitch Insider.
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