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Pomelo

Fashion · Bangkok, Thailand · Founded 2013

Pomelo Fashion operates as a vertically integrated, omnichannel fashion platform headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand. The company was established in 2013 by David Jou, Casey Liang, and Win Thanapisitikul. CEO David Jou, a Korean-American entrepreneur, previously co-founded Lazada Thailand, and his experience there revealed the significant potential for a tech-driven fashion business in Southeast Asia. This insight, combined with inspiration from Seoul's dynamic Dongdaemun fashion market, led to the creation of Pomelo. Co-founder Casey Liang also shares a background in e-commerce, having served as a managing director at Lazada Thailand before co-founding Pomelo. The company's business model is centered on providing on-trend fashion for women, primarily targeting the Southeast Asian market with styles influenced by Korean fashion but tailored to local climates and preferences. Initially launched as an online-only retailer, Pomelo has evolved into an omnichannel powerhouse that seamlessly integrates its digital platform with physical retail stores. This strategy addresses the limitations of online shopping by allowing customers to experience products firsthand. A key feature of this model is the 'Tap.Try.Buy.' service, which enables customers to order items online via the Pomelo app, try them on at a physical location, and purchase only the items they decide to keep. This approach enhances customer confidence and reduces the high return rates often seen in fashion e-commerce. Revenue is generated through the direct sale of its house-brand apparel, shoes, and accessories. The company controls the entire process from in-house design to manufacturing and distribution, which allows it to maintain quality and respond quickly to trends. Pomelo has expanded its reach beyond Thailand, shipping to over 40 countries and establishing a physical presence in markets like Singapore and Malaysia. The company has successfully raised significant capital to fuel its growth, with funding rounds including a $52 million Series C in 2019 and a $3.9 million Series D in 2023. Beyond its core fashion offerings, Pomelo has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability through its 'Purpose by Pomelo' and 'Down to Earth' initiatives, which feature eco-conscious materials and promote clothing donation and recycling. Keywords: omnichannel fashion, Southeast Asia e-commerce, fast fashion, direct-to-consumer, fashion technology, Tap.Try.Buy., online retail, women's apparel, Bangkok startup, David Jou, Casey Liang, sustainable fashion, Purpose by Pomelo, Asian fashion market, vertically integrated brand, fashion supply chain, clothing e-commerce, retail technology, cross-border commerce, fashion discovery platform