Response is a privately held company specializing in streamlining procurement processes through its innovative marketplace platform. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, Response has developed a network that connects businesses requiring personal protective equipment (PPE) with verified manufacturers, enabling efficient and reliable procurement.
Background
Response's mission is to organize the world's inventory, making it universally accessible and useful. The company began by assisting nonprofits in transforming outdated, manual procurement processes into seamless digital workflows. Over the years, Response has collaborated with hundreds of procurement teams across more than 50 countries, gaining extensive experience in purchasing at scale. This foundation has enabled the company to develop a platform that simplifies complex procurement tasks, particularly in the PPE sector.
Key Strategic Focus
Response focuses on providing a marketplace that matches businesses in need of PPE with verified manufacturers. The platform allows suppliers to bid on customer requests, enabling businesses to control their spending without the necessity of hiring a dedicated procurement team. This approach not only streamlines the procurement process but also ensures transparency and efficiency in sourcing essential supplies.
Financials and Funding
In August 2020, Response secured $150,000 in funding through the Y Combinator accelerator program. This investment has been instrumental in enhancing the platform's capabilities and expanding its reach within the procurement industry.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Response has built the world's largest industrial catalog, boasting over 20 million stock-keeping units (SKUs). This extensive catalog, combined with the company's deep industry expertise and partnerships with leading logistics players, positions Response as a leader in procurement innovation. The platform's design emphasizes accessibility, ensuring that procurement processes are as straightforward as possible for users.
Leadership Team
- Keivan Shahida, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer: Brings extensive experience in procurement and digital transformation.
- Kais Baillargeon, Co-Founder: Has a background in operational management and strategic development.
- Justin Ziniel, Founding Data Scientist: Specializes in data analytics and machine learning applications.
- Renato de Vito Castro, Infrastructure Engineer: Focuses on building and maintaining robust technological infrastructures.
- Zachary Williams, Founding Frontend Engineer: Expert in user interface and experience design.
- André Araújo, DevOps Engineer: Ensures seamless integration and deployment of software solutions.
- Becca Creger, Founding Product Designer: Leads the design and user experience aspects of the platform.
- Rogers Pelle, Infrastructure Engineer: Works on developing and optimizing the company's technological framework.
Competitor Profile
In the procurement and supply chain management sector, Response faces competition from various companies offering similar services. However, Response's unique focus on PPE procurement and its extensive industrial catalog set it apart in the market.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Response has established partnerships with leading logistics companies, enhancing its ability to navigate complex supply chains and deliver efficient procurement solutions to its clients.
Operational Insights
Response's platform is designed to be accessible to all users, eliminating per-seat models that disincentivize collaboration. The company is committed to maintaining an inclusive catalog, ensuring that no supplier or manufacturer is excluded without just cause. Additionally, Response prioritizes customer privacy by keeping pricing information confidential and using data responsibly to improve user experience.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Having exited its beta phase after rigorous testing with warehouse teams across more than 25 states, Response is poised to scale new heights in procurement innovation. The company's deep industry expertise, proven track record, and strategic partnerships position it well to redefine the future of indirect spend and expand its services beyond PPE procurement.
Contact Information
- Website: www.tryresponse.com
- Headquarters: San Francisco, CA, United States
