In the ever-evolving world of luxury fashion, managing inventory efficiently is more critical than ever. With multiple distribution channels, intricate supply chains, and shorter sales cycles, mid-market retailers and premium brands often find themselves struggling to compete against retail giants. Many are stuck relying on outdated software, leading to inefficiencies and lost revenue.
Enter Autone, a groundbreaking supply chain platform founded in 2020 that’s set to change the game for retailers. With a mission to streamline inventory planning, forecast demand, and minimize waste, Autone has just secured a whopping $17 million in Series A funding led by General Catalyst. This new investment brings the total funding raised by the company to $20 million, following an earlier $3 million Seed round led by Speedinvest. Notable previous investors include Speedinvest, YCombinator, Seedcamp, and influential angels from LVMH, Sephora, and Moncler.
The Vision Behind Autone
Adil Bouhdadi, the co-founder and CEO of Autone, has a rich background in the luxury fashion industry. Raised in Paris, he immersed himself in sneaker culture in the early 2000s, eventually landing an internship at Givenchy after persistently refreshing the LVMH career page. His career blossomed from there, with stints at high-profile brands like Alexander Wang, Victoria Beckham, and Alexander McQueen.
While at Alexander McQueen, Adil and his co-founder, Harry Glucksmann-Cheslaw, developed an internal inventory platform that significantly boosted the brand’s revenue over five years. Adil recalls, “At Alexander McQueen, we realized everyone was just using Excel. The biggest pain point for retail companies is that they operate in silos.” This experience sparked the creation of Autone, which now offers retailers the ability to analyze product data up to 12 months in advance.
Transforming Retail Efficiency
So, what makes Autone stand out? The platform enables retailers to purchase raw materials in just one month instead of three, drastically reducing inventory risks and allowing for a more flexible supply chain. This is a game changer for brands like Courreges, Roberto Cavalli, Stussy, and Zadig&Voltaire, who are already reaping the benefits of Autone’s innovative solutions.
A Unique Founding Story
What’s even more fascinating is the diverse backgrounds of its founders. Adil comes from a Muslim family that immigrated to Paris from Morocco, while Harry hails from a Jewish family that escaped the Holocaust to settle in the UK. This unique partnership not only enriches Autone’s culture but also embodies a shared commitment to innovation and progress in the retail sector.
Looking Ahead
As the retail landscape continues to shift, tools like Autone will be essential for mid-market retailers and premium brands striving to maintain margins and meet consumer demand. With their fresh approach to inventory management, the co-founders are poised to make a lasting impact on the industry.
The future of luxury fashion supply chains is here, and Autone is leading the charge with cutting-edge technology that promises to transform how retailers operate.
I’m a finance writer with three years of experience in investment analysis. At Investorwelcome , I translate complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights to help investors navigate the market with confidence. Combining my solid academic background with practical industry knowledge, I’m dedicated to providing readers with accurate and timely information. My goal is to empower both new and seasoned investors by simplifying intricate data and offering strategic advice. When I’m not writing, I stay engaged with market trends and investment innovations to ensure my content remains relevant and valuable.
aparna