DS365 Technology

About DS365 Technology

DS365 Technology, officially known as 店商互联 (Dianshang Hulian), was established in January 2014 as a B2B platform focused on the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. The company, founded by CEO Song Ningbao, aimed to digitize the procurement process for convenience stores across China. Song Ningbao brought relevant industry experience to the venture, having been involved in the FMCG distribution field since 2002 and previously founding a convenience store chain and a last-mile logistics network.

The core of DS365's business model is a mobile application and website that allows convenience store owners to order inventory directly. This digital marketplace serves as a one-stop-shop, streamlining the traditionally fragmented and inefficient procurement process for small, independent retailers. The company's value proposition includes rapid and reliable delivery, offering services like 12-hour arrival and twice-daily deliveries, along with a straightforward return and exchange policy. By aggregating demand and sourcing directly, the platform aims to provide competitive pricing and a wider selection of goods than traditional distributors.

Beyond procurement, DS365 expanded its offerings to include financial services, providing credit-based purchasing and other internet finance options to its client base of small store owners. The company's revenue is generated through the sale of goods on its B2B platform and potentially through its financial service offerings. Over the years, DS365 successfully attracted significant venture capital. Its funding history includes a Series A round of 130 million RMB in March 2016, a Series B round of 700 million RMB in November 2016, and a B+ round of 350 million RMB in January 2018. However, in April 2018, reports emerged that the company was facing financial difficulties, including a potential funding shortfall and impending bankruptcy proceedings, though it appears to have continued operations in some form.