Startups are the new way for up and coming talent to follow their dreams, because these relatively small business can reach great heights. With the arrival of the digital era, more and more startups are being created and some are getting attention from users all over the world. If you are looking for inspiration in building your very own small business, look at these companies that used unique business models to drive their users crazy.
Paperless went back to paper
In 2008, the company Paperless was launched as a creative and artistic way to send invitations, email blasts and announcements. The company reeled in customers with its quirky design templates and desire to drive the world of stationery to the information age. The company initially offered a digital-only service, but now it has Paperless Post, a service which lets users design a card that they can send via electronic mail or through traditional snail mail. By embracing the enemy, Paperless dropped the “less” and learned how to love paper.
Airbnb Sharing Community
From sharing rides to sharing homes, the concept of Airbnb allows users and homeowners all over the globe to provide alternative accommodation they can use when traveling to far-flung areas. Thanks to the service, empty rooms can be rented out, giving people a cheaper option than chain hotels and motels. The site has become a poster child for the sharing economy and has the same aspirations as businesses such as Uber and Lyft. Millions of travellers book rooms through Airbnb, a testament to the behavior that is currently being hailed as “collaborative consumption.”
Giftbox for curating
Instead of specialising in just one product, Giftbox curates hundreds, based on the tastes of their followers and subscribers. One example vice is the Loot Crate, which dishes out some of the best nerd gear for fan boys all over the globe. Every month, the team behind Loot Crate sends out a box containing items related to the theme subscribers are interested in. The box includes toys, nerd products, shirts, and exclusive comic items considered to be a geek’s prized possessions. By curating your products, you can sell more, earning you the ability to gain a huge profit.
Serengetee for customisation
One way to make customers engage with your prioduct is to allow them to customise it. Serengetee shirts have pocket patters that represents the place that the founders have visited, tying a social cause they have fought for in that region. The customers can customise the shirts to their liking and it even teaches them a thing or two about investing in global issues worldwide.
Flaunting your edge
Using the ability to customise can drive your business further. If you can do it with shirts and bespoke accessories, trying it in bigger and riskier business ventures can lead to a more successful endeavor. Finding your business edge and putting it out on display can lure in more customers. One example is allowing the customers to use your site’s Custom ATV & UTV wheel builder. The wheel builder enables them to find the right match for their ATV and UTVs. You won’t see that in other businesses.