Overview
Watermelon Ecosystem is an innovative company in the Food and Beverage (F&B) industry, aiming to streamline supply chain processes through a comprehensive platform. The company offers a suite of services including an online food marketplace, procurement management, marketing services, Cloud Point of Sale (POS), Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions, and financial solutions. Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and founded in 2020, Watermelon Ecosystem is dedicated to enhancing clarity, convenience, and efficiency in the procurement processes for F&B buyers and suppliers.
Key Features and Services
- Marketplace and Sourcing: Watermelon Ecosystem connects F&B outlets with over 50 local suppliers and 1,000 products via its digital marketplace, facilitating efficient transactions.
- Procurement Management: The company provides solutions to optimize ordering and procurement processes for restaurants, ensuring streamlined operations.
- Financial Solutions: Offering B2B financing and working capital solutions, Watermelon Ecosystem partners with Deem Finance and Biz2X to overcome financial barriers and provide SME lending options.
- Technology and Innovation: The company focuses on innovation with SaaS solutions, including analytics and order management systems, and advances business operations with the Cloud POS.
- Marketing Services: Comprehensive marketing strategies, from branding to digital campaigns, are available to enhance market reach for F&B partners.
Corporate Journey and Achievements
Watermelon Ecosystem was founded in April 2021 and expanded rapidly, adding 5,000 SKUs by August 2021 and launching its platform version 1.0 by December 2021. In June 2023, the company formed a partnership with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, further cementing its industry presence. In 2024, Watermelon Ecosystem was recognized at the 2024 Most Influential CEO Awards.
Leadership
- Omar AlShamsi (CEO): Guides the company's strategic direction, utilizing his finance acumen to drive innovation. Under his leadership, Watermelon Ecosystem secured a $4 million Series A funding round, achieving a valuation of $29 million. Omar also contributes significantly to sustainability initiatives.
- Harris Solangi (CTO): With over ten years in fintech, ecommerce, and edtech, he’s instrumental in Watermelon’s technological advancements within the F&B sector.
- Asma Naeem (Product Manager): Responsible for aligning product offerings with Watermelon's mission and crafting outstanding product experiences.
Strategic Partnerships and Investments
- Series A Funding: A $4 million Series A funding round was completed with Daman Investments leading. This funding is directed towards technology enhancement, market expansion, and growth acceleration.
- Biz2X Partnership: A strategic partnership enables the company to provide embedded lending and invoice financing to F&B SMEs, improving financial accessibility and operational efficiency.
Vision and Mission
The company's vision is to leverage technology to create a seamless procurement ecosystem, delivering satisfaction across all stakeholders. The mission aims at digitizing procurement processes to foster a sustainable, efficient, and transparent F&B industry landscape.
Competitive Landscape
Watermelon Ecosystem operates in a competitive F&B technology space, with notable competitors including:
- Bobbie: Focuses on organic infant formula with high safety standards.
- MycoTechnology: Uses fungi-based platforms to enhance food nutritional qualities.
- Kamereo: Vietnam-based platform connecting restaurants with food suppliers.
Additional Competitors:
- SpotOn: Offers integrated restaurant management and payment systems.
- Tillster: Specializes in digital ordering and engagement platforms for the restaurant sector.
Watermelon Ecosystem is poised to expand its impact in the UAE's dynamic tech landscape, contributing significantly to the evolution of the food tech industry while strategically addressing the needs of food service providers.
