Thai E-Commerce Startup WearYouWant Secures $1.5M to Revolutionize Fashion Retail
Thailand presents a golden opportunity for e-commerce businesses, boasting a 43% mobile penetration rate (Nielsen) and a thriving social media culture, with platforms like Instagram leading the charge. However, challenges like low credit card adoption and underdeveloped logistics networks remain significant hurdles.
Breaking Barriers in Thai E-Commerce
Bangkok-based fashion marketplace WearYouWant has successfully raised $1.5 million in Series A funding to address these pain points. The investment round was led by:
- Digital Media Partners (DMP): A venture firm specializing in emerging markets
- OPT SEA: A prominent Japanese e-marketing company
Additional participants included IMG Investment Partners and co-founder Julien Chalte.
Rapid Growth Despite Market Challenges
Founded in 2011 by Chalte and Martin Toft Sorensen, WearYouWant has rapidly expanded its footprint. Key stats:
- 450+ brands and 12,500+ products listed
- Tens of thousands of active customers
- Triple-digit growth over the past six months (despite Thailand’s political instability)
The platform operates as a digital marketplace, enabling offline retailers to establish online storefronts and manage orders seamlessly.
Innovative Solutions for Local Market Needs
Understanding Thailand’s unique e-commerce landscape, WearYouWant has implemented:
- Cash-on-delivery payments: Addressing low credit card penetration (only 5% of Thais own credit cards)
- Strategic logistics partnerships: Collaborating with CJ Korea and KWC Logistics for reliable nationwide shipping
Currently offering 2-5 day delivery, the company plans to introduce next-day shipping to compete with major players like the Alibaba-Singpost joint venture (which secured $250M funding in 2014).
Competitive Landscape
WearYouWant faces competition from:
- Lazada Thailand
- Zalora Thailand
Both rivals are backed by Rocket Internet, making WearYouWant’s local-market specialization and agile approach crucial differentiators.
The Road Ahead
This funding injection positions WearYouWant to:
- Enhance logistics capabilities
- Expand product offerings
- Improve customer experience
- Strengthen its position against regional giants
As Thailand’s e-commerce sector continues evolving, WearYouWant’s blend of local market understanding and innovative solutions makes it a startup to watch.
