Cartwheel: Comprehensive Company and Competitor Profile
Company Overview
Cartwheel is a dynamic enterprise specializing in hybrid delivery management software, engineered for diverse sectors including restaurants, retail, and courier services. Established in the early 2010s, the company gained early recognition as Yelp Eat 24's premier delivery service partner. Over time, Cartwheel shifted focus towards technology, developing a sophisticated delivery management solution that optimizes routes, manages both in-house and third-party drivers, and seamlessly integrates with ordering apps and Point of Sale systems like Toast and Square.
The company's software serves various logistics functions, such as pizza, alcohol, and cannabis delivery. Notable brands like Portillo’s, P.F. Chang's, Potbelly, Minibar, Lou Malnati's, and Mamma Ramona's Pizza leverage Cartwheel's offerings, reflecting its significant impact in catering to complex delivery scenarios, enhancing customer interactions with AI-powered dispatch, real-time tracking, and revenue-enhancing features.
Financial and Investment Landscape
Cartwheel has navigated several funding milestones, notably securing $20 million in Series A funding aimed at expanding telehealth services for student mental health—indicative of its diversification beyond core delivery services. The company previously raised $3 million in seed funding for its hybrid delivery solutions. Cartwheel's investment portfolio includes backing from prominent firms like Portillo's Ventures, Ten One Ten Ventures, Act One Ventures, and Moonshots Capital, with total funding reaching approximately $14.3 million. The company maintains a revenue stream around $10 million, establishing itself as a formidable industry player.
Strategic Partnerships and Innovations
Cartwheel's prowess is bolstered by strategic partnerships and advanced integrations with platforms like Toast and Square, enhancing its service capacity. These collaborations streamline order flows and offer customizable delivery solutions. Furthermore, the enduring partnership with Portillo’s, a long-time customer and minority owner, underscores Cartwheel's technological excellence and client satisfaction.
Leadership Team
Under the leadership of CEO Alex Vasilkin—a co-founder along with Magdim focused on growth, and Dan as CTO—Cartwheel is fueled by a dedicated team with over 11 years of relevant industry expertise. Key team members include Kristina in Customer Success and Kate in Partnerships, with various specialists in sales, product development, and marketing reinforcing the company's strategic initiatives. The advisory board comprises industry experts such as Shalin Sheth, former Senior VP at Olo, and Nicholas Scarpino, CEO of Giordano's Pizza, providing valuable oversight and aligning strategic goals with industry trends.
Market Position and Future Prospects
Cartwheel continues to cement its role as a leading figure in delivery management solutions, with operations extending across all 50 states in the US, as well as Canada and the UK. The company remains proactive in food-tech and restaurant industry events, nurturing its reputation as a pioneering on-demand delivery platform. Its adaptability to evolving global market needs is further emphasized by its focus on expanding its customer base and refining service offerings.
Competitive Landscape
In the competitive realm, Cartwheel encounters rivals like Metrobi, OptimoRoute, and FleetRunnr, each offering distinct logistics solutions:
- Metrobi: Offers local delivery services with an emphasis on route optimization and real-time tracking to enhance logistics efficiency.
- OptimoRoute: Provides advanced route planning and scheduling features like automated preparation and live tracking, catering to multiple sectors.
- FleetRunnr: Delivers cloud-based logistics software for SMBs, managing logistics from start to finish, enabling efficiency and scalability.
Cartwheel's diverse service capabilities, strategic brand partnerships, and software integrations provide a competitive edge, allowing it to effectively tackle complex logistics challenges and maintain a dominant market presence against these competitors.
