This article is included in the following additional categories:
Founded in 2007 by CEO Henrik Müller-Hansen, Gelato has evolved into a significant force in digital commerce. With a business model that favors local, on-demand production, Gelato operates in 32 countries, effectively minimizing its manufacturing and distribution logistics footprint. Headquartered in Oslo, with a vast network of offices around the world, including Atlanta, Berlin and Singapore, the company represents a new era of efficient and responsible production.
Core features of the Gelato platform
At the heart of Gelato's innovation is GelatoConnect, a platform designed to integrate print producers around the world into a tight network. This system allows efficient management and shipping of products, significantly reducing production time and overhead costs. GelatoConnect leverages advanced software solutions to enable producers around the world to centrally manage their operations while running production locally.
Environmental benefits of on-demand production
The on-demand production model is the cornerstone of Gelato's strategy to combat the environmental problems that plague traditional manufacturing practices, particularly overproduction and excessive carbon emissions. By manufacturing products only when they are sold, and ensuring that they are produced and delivered 99% within the same region and 87% within the same country as the end customer, Gelato eliminates unnecessary production and transportation distances, Significantly reduce costs and emissions.
Benefits for creators and e-commerce sellers
For creators and e-commerce sellers, Gelato levels the playing field and allows them to enjoy production costs and delivery speeds that were previously accessible only to large players. The platform eliminates the need for large up-front investments and democratizes access to scalable business opportunities without traditional barriers.
“Our sustainability practices resonate with customers who value reducing our environmental impact and supporting local production,” he says. CEO Henrik Müller-Hansen“This often aligns with their preference for more responsible operations as they value sustainability, but also because consumers are increasingly interested in products made using sustainable methods and materials. It also gives them a competitive advantage as they are willing to pay a premium of 15 to 30 percent.” Additionally, because Gelato's products are produced close to the end consumer, customers can receive their orders faster without having to worry about their products being held up in customs. That's a bonus! ”
Strategic expansion and innovation
The company's aggressive adoption of technology and expansion of production capacity enables creators and businesses to quickly respond to consumers' evolving demands.
muller hansen In the short term, the company says it will continue to expand its product offering to expand its lineup available for on-demand production, while also expanding its network of local production partners around the world. “We are also increasing the proportion of non-fossil fuels in last-mile transport and improving our products and packaging from a sustainability perspective. Additionally, we are creating opportunities for both creators and manufacturers to grow their businesses. In the medium term, we are very excited about how 3D printing can redefine what products can be manufactured locally and on demand.” I am.
Sustainability metrics and performance
Gelato's commitment to sustainability is reflected in our meticulous sourcing of materials and partnerships with environmentally conscious suppliers. All wood and paper products are sourced from sustainably managed forests in compliance with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification. Gelato's production partners adhere to the Supplier Code of Conduct, reinforcing the company's commitment to ethical and responsible business practices, as evidenced by his recently released 2023 Sustainability Report.
Future outlook and strategic goals
Gelato's model represents a major shift towards more sustainable and efficient forms of production and distribution in the digital age. By focusing on local, on-demand production, Gelato is driving business growth and pioneering the movement towards a greener world. As businesses and consumers increasingly focus on sustainability, Gelato's model provides a blueprint for future business operations in global markets, highlighting that efficiency and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. .
henrik muller hansen “In the long term, we believe Gelato’s platform will redefine manufacturing, allowing individual sellers and small businesses to break down previous barriers to accessing a global consumer base. Faster and cheaper while moving the world to local, on-demand production. Our most important competition is to rethink old manufacturing methods and make them available to everyone. It’s time to bring it closer to the end consumer and benefit both people and the planet.”
