Crane is a London based VC firm investing and building seed and early stage intelligent enterprise and deep technology businesses across Europe. Our strategy is to support founders in building and executing their go-to-market strategy.

Crane Venture Partners

ARM Holdings is a provider of silicon IP and custom SoCs at the heart of billions of devices. Its business model involves designing and licensing of IP rather than manufacturing and selling of actual semiconductor chips. They license IP to a network of partners and these partners utilize ARM IP designs to create and manufacture system-on-chip designs. In addition to processor IP, they provide a range of tools, physical and systems IP to enable optimized system-on-chip designs.

Arm Holdings

Triple Point Ventures is an early stage VC based in London, investing in promising start-ups across multiple sectors including ecommerce, AI, platforms and wider tech. TP's team offers entrepreneurs something a bit different - a fusion of funding and operational expertise, helping investee companies fulfil their growth plans at speed while ensuring teams themselves reach their full potential as they expand.   Triple Point has funded many companies, including Skin Analytics, LendInvest, Contis Group, Capital on Tap, Payment Sense, Flatfair and MWS Technology. Several TP-backed companies have featured in start-up charts such as The Sunday Times Tech Track 100. TP recently began raising its second £30 million venture fund to invest in early stage companies who are addressing identified challenges in the B2B or B2B2C world. Triple Point Ventures is the venture capital arm of the wider Triple Point Investment Management group. The Triple Point Group manages over £1.5 billion in assets across multiple strategies including debt, infrastructure, real estate and venture capital. The group was established in 2004 as a UK venture capital trust manager and has continued to provide strong risk-adjusted returns to investors throughout this time.

Triple Point Ventures

Runa Capital is a technology-focused venture capital firm managing two funds – Runa I was launched with $135M in 2010 and has made 33 investments,  Runa II of $135M was launched in 2014 and has made 30 investmerns and Runa III was started in 2019 and is in active investment stage right now.  The fund was established to seek early stage opportunities in the rapidly growing tech sector, with the specific focus on deeptech (AI, ML, open-source), future of computing, fintech infrastructure and enterprise software. Runa brings a team with extensive operational experience and is focused on finding growth businesses that generate revenues, supporting them in the global marketplace and turning them into international champions. Founded by Ilya Zubarev, Serg Bell (founders of Parallels and Acronis) and Dmitry Chikhachev (Ericsson, Ritzio, Uvenco) Runa Capital is run by a team of successful entrepreneurs, most of whom have worked together for over 15 years. It is a united team with broad geographical and cross-industry experience, as well as an extensive professional network. Runa Capital investment team members possess an excellent track record in tech investments.

Runa Capital

Founded in 2005, True Ventures is a Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology startups. With more than $3.8 billion under management, True provides seed and Series A financing to entrepreneurs in some of today's growing markets.  With more than 40 team members including special advisors, operations professionals, and founders-turned-investors, True represents one of the largest and most experienced teams dedicated to the ecosystem.  The True team believes creativity flourishes when founders are supported fully and empowered to pursue brave ideas. To that end, the True Platform offers programs that inspire professional and personal growth. To date, True has helped more than 350 companies launch and scale their businesses, creating over 85,000 jobs worldwide.  True was awarded Venture Firm of the Year by the National Venture Capital Association in 2018. To learn more, visit www.trueventures.com.

True Ventures

Portfolio Ventures was founded in October 2014 by Will Martin and Will Brooks. They have been involved in raising funding for over 120 early stage companies. They set up Portfolio Ventures to work with high-quality UK startups that have already achieved early traction, are ready to scale and will benefit from access to their network of sophisticated private and professional investors.

Portfolio Ventures

Material Ventures is a European venture fund set up by two former operators with the goal to connect their US LPs with the best companies in Europe and vice-versa

Material Ventures

SeeChange

SeeChange Technologies is a retailer-focused computer vision and AI technology company. It works with real-time AI-powered recognition systems. The platform is available as software-as-a service, installed in a datacenter or on site.It integrates with existing CCTV solution and can be accessed securely worldwide.

SeeChange Technologies develops a visual AI-powered retail technology platform, dubbed “SeeWare.” SeeWare is a modular and scalable solution that can integrate with existing hardware at retail stores to process video feeds.&nbsp;

Providing a seamless consumer experience is one hope for bringing back brick and mortar retail, automated stores are being built to do just that.

Automated Stores

Retail AI startup SeeChange appoints Silicon Valley chair

SeeChange Technologies develops a visual AI-powered retail technology platform, dubbed “SeeWare.” SeeWare is a modular and scalable solution that can integrate with existing hardware at retail stores to process video feeds.&nbsp;The technology can be connected with self-checkout integrated cameras at retail stores to enable recognition of non-barcoded fresh produce items. SeeChange also provides a “Retail Shrink” solution which utilizes data from store hardware, such as CCTV cameras, weight scales, and touch screens, to provide actionable insights for store inventory management.Key customers and partnershipsIn December 2021, supermarket retailer ASDA partnered with SeeChange and AI software solution provider Hark to launch a retail technology solution that generates store insights based on data obtained via 207 in-store sensors. Diebold Nixdorf, a developer of automation solutions for banks and retail stores integrated SeeChange’s technology into its “Vynamic Smart Vision,” a self-checkout solution that enables recognition of non-barcoded fresh produce (January 2023).In April 2021, SeeChange partnered with cloud-based loss prevention and risk mitigation solutions provider Ocucon to design and deliver technologies for the loss prevention sector. SeeChange also has technology partnerships with facilities management service provider mitie and ​​cloud-based corporate video management solutions provider IPConfigure.&nbsp;

Zippin offers computer vision-powered grab-and-go checkout solutions for retailers. Zippin uses overhead cameras and shelf sensors along with computer vision algorithms to track items picked up by customers. The customers can use Zippin’s mobile app to enter the store, pick up their purchases, and exit the stores to complete the transaction. Zippin claims the combination of cameras and weight sensors provides a more accurate sensor fusion algorithm compared to a purely camera-based solution.Zippin does not use biometrics to identify consumers and only uses overhead cameras to map out customer movements. Zippin’s solutions are priced based on the square footage of the stores.The company also offers the Zippin Crew app, a mobile app that can be used to scan and locate inventory in-store. It provides retailers with inventory insights, such as planogram data, stock availability data, and out-of-stock alerts. Zippin Retailer Dashboard is a store analytics solution that provides insights on real-time shopping activity, planogram compliance, out-of-stocks, and shopper behavior.In 2022, the company launched Zippin Lane, a checkout-free solution suitable for high-traffic locations like sport arenas, airports, train stations, and busy college campuses. Zippin lanes are designed to fit into long and narrow areas with store sizes starting at 240 sq ft. As of September 2022, the Zippin had deployed over 20 Zippin lanes, including nine locations at NFL venues.Key customers and partnershipsAs of February 2023, Zippin had deployed its technology at 90 store locations (after opening its first demo store in 2019). Zippin’s technology powers supermarkets and convenience stores such as Lojas Americanas (August 2019) in Brazil and Azbuka Vkusa (May 2020) in Russia. As of September 2023 Zippin had 71 checkout free stores at sports venues and stadiums in the US including 1) Golden 1 Center arena (September 2019), 2) Mile High Stadium in Denver (November 2020), 3) Barclays Center (in partnership with American Express; June 2021), 4) Houston's NRG Stadium (in partnership with Aramark; March 2022); and 5) Gainbridge Fieldhouse (October 2022). In 2023, Zippin opened checkout-free stores at multiple NFL stadiums. Zippin also opened a checkout-free store in partnership with the Dallas-based restaurant and entertainment business, Dave &amp; Buster’s (July 2022). In December 2021, the company announced the launch of its first airport store in partnership with JFKIAT, the operator of Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and SSP America, an airport foodservice operator. In May 2024, Zippin partnered with the food service company <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/29719">Aramark</a> to introduce a frictionless and cashierless store at a theme park in the UK.The Japan-based systems integrator Fujitsu serves as Zippin’s exclusive distributor in Japan (December 2020). Under the partnership, Fujitsu has the authority to deploy Zippin’s technology integrated with Fujitsu’s biometric authentication technology. The two companies initially piloted an automated store at a Lawson convenience store chain in Japan (February 2020). In November 2022, the companies extended the partnership to support UK and Europe deployments.Funding and financialsIn September 2021, Zippin raised USD 30 million in a Series B funding round, to invest in its expansion plan and accelerate innovation specifically with regards to deployment and maintenance.

Zippin

<div>
 
 A vision technology company, AWM (Adroit Worldwide Media) Smart Shelf offers an array of retail solutions. The company&rsquo;s main cashierless checkout solution is called AWM Frictionless, a collaborative solution offered in partnership with Microsoft Azure, and uses several of AWM&rsquo;s product offerings to create an enhanced shopping experience.&nbsp;
 
 
 As shoppers arrive, they launch their mobile app to check in, where the AWM Frictionless platform notes their presence. As shoppers move, cameras track them, and their identity is further validated by facial-matching software. Product selection is then tracked through AWM&rsquo;s Automated Inventory Intelligence solution, which uses a series of super-wide-angle low-light HD cameras and AWM&rsquo;s LED Fascia technology (a type of automated shelving technology). Machine learning tracks shopper purchases and makes shopping list recommendations during subsequent visits. Once shopping is done, shoppers simply exit the store and are automatically charged in their online accounts.&nbsp;
 
 
 Key customers and partnerships
 
 
 The company&rsquo;s partnerships go beyond the retail sector. In January 2020, AWM partnered with OptiCrib to offer friction-free inventory management in the industrial and commercial supply space. Meanwhile, AWM&rsquo;s retail partnerships include Albertsons, Aramark, Coop, Diageo, The Home Depot, Greenpicks Market, and 
 <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/25770">
 Choice Markets
 </a>
 .
 
</div>

AWM Smart Shelf

AiFi offers a grab-and-go checkout solution powered by computer vision and AI. Its solution enables a customer to enter a store using a mobile app, pick up the items required, and exit the store to complete the purchase. The solution also generates statistics and insights on customer behavior. The company claims that its technology can track up to 500 customers while also tracking tens of thousands of items in a store. It also claims a 99% accuracy rate and can be used within a space of up to 10,000 square feet, without using facial recognition technology or storing biometric data.AiFi’s flagship platform, “Orchestrated Autonomous Store Infrastructure &amp; Services (OASIS)” is designed for stores ranging from 200 square feet to 10,000 square feet and allows users to select between a fully autonomous shopping experience or a hybrid model. The stores will have a turnstile, a kiosk or door locks at the entrance, which the customer can interact with to gain access to the store. It also can be integrated with existing payments, inventory management, and electronic shelf labeling systems. The stores operate on a subscription-based model, and the company guarantees 12 months to achieve a return on investment (ROI).AiFi leverages the OASIS platform to offer retail clients the option of deploying an AiFi NanoStore, a custom-designed, fully-automated, container-sized, unmanned, checkout-free store format that can be operated 24/7. The NanoStores come in sizes of 160, 300 and 370 square feet specifications. Company claims that its technology can save around USD 20 per hour of operation.Key customers and partnershipsAs of February 2023, AiFi’s technology was deployed at over 100 stores globally. In January 2022, AiFi launched its largest store, a 6,000 sq ft Aldi location in London. AiFi’s key partnerships include Carrefour (November 2018) in the UAE, Zabka (February 2019), Wundermart (February 2021), PostNL (May 2021), Morrisons (July 2021), Aldi (January 2022), Compass Group (December 2021), Kende Gastro (January 2022) in Europe, Loop Neighborhood (January 2020), Choice Market (April 2021), Verizon (May 2021) , Acrisure Arena ( <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/29120">May 2024 </a>), and Chicago White Sox (<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/33472">September 2024</a>) in the US, and AiGo (December 2020) in China.AiFi also has a partnership with Microsoft (January 2023) to launch a cloud-based analytics service for cashier-less stores. In <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/9389">March 2022 </a>AiFi partnered with Sodexo, the French campus food service operator, to bring autonomous grocery stores to campuses across the US.Funding and financialsBy 2022, AiFi reportedly had revenue growth of 5–6x YoY. In March 2022, AiFi raised USD 65 million in a Series B funding round led by Canada-based investment management firm Khaira CapitalAiFi. It planned to leverage the new funding to scale partnerships, strengthen its deployment team for faster store rollouts, and invest in product development and feature enhancement.

AiFi

<div>
 
 Eflyn is an Ontario-based developer of interactive digital displays, self-checkout kiosks, and vending machine solutions with operations in Canada and the US. Eflyn&rsquo;s self-checkout kiosk range includes solutions designed for the retail industry, as well as restaurant self-ordering and donation and fundraising kiosks for places of worship and non-profit organizations.&nbsp;
 
 
 Eflyn&rsquo;s self-checkout kiosks and stations for retailers enable customers to scan items using a built-in scanner and complete the purchase process using the interactive screen and an attached debit/credit card machine. Eflyn also offers shopify integrations to its kiosk solutions, enabling retailers to integrate their ecommerce operations with retail. The customers can use an Eflyn kiosk with a shopify integration to browse products in the retailer&rsquo;s ecommerce store, check in-store availability, and place an online order in the event an item is not available in store.
 
 
 Key customers and partnerships
 
 
 In November 2020, Eflyn Shopify Kiosks were made available to all the company&rsquo;s customers after a trial period with select retailers. Since then, Eflyn served customers across various industries, including retail, education, and foodservice, including customers such as Pet Collar Emporium, Lowe's, Toys&ldquo;R&rdquo;Us Canada, and Ryerson University.&nbsp;
 
</div>

Eflyn

<div>
 
 MishiPay is a London-based startup that offers a self-checkout system powered by Radio Frequency ID (RFID) and cloud computing. MishiPay provides an app that allows shoppers to scan the barcodes of products and carry out payments using their mobile devices. The company also provides a progressive web apps (PWA) solution to allow customers to use their self-checkout solution without the need to install and launch an Android app. The company claims the PWA increases transactions by 10 times and has a higher user adoption rate than platform-specific apps.
 
 
 As of April 2024, MishiPay also provides a range of barcode scanner-based self-checkout kiosk solutions, which include a mounted 10-, 15-, or 22-inch tablet that can be integrated with existing point-of-sales solutions in the store.
 
 
 Key customers and partnerships
 
 
 As of March 2024, MishiPay&rsquo;s solutions were used by 30 brands across 14 countries in North America, Europe, and the Middle East. In August 2016, MishiPay partnered with Cisco UK and had its first commercial deployment at Deloitte&rsquo;s &ldquo;Store of the Future&rdquo; in London. Mishipay&rsquo;s other retail deployment partnerships include Dufry (2017), Leroy Merlin (2017), Saturn (2018), Mango (2018), Decathlon (2019), MUJI (2020), SPAR (2020), Londis (2020), Flying Tiger Copenhagen (2021), Virgin Megastore (2022), and Grandiose super markets (2023).&nbsp;
 
 
 In March 2021, the company also deployed its technology in US airports in collaboration with Paradies Lagard&egrave;re, a North America-based airport retailer and restaurateur. As of 2022, MishiPay had deployments at 30 airports across North America.
 
</div>

MishiPay

Companies providing smart shelves (hardware and software systems, including vision-based systems) and stock tagging systems (including radio frequency identification [RFID]) to track items inside a store

Companies providing shopping carts enhanced with cameras, sensors, and AI to enable automatic checkout

Includes self-checkout kiosks (typically cameras and weight sensors) and mobile app-based scanning solutions (commonly leveraging barcodes and QR codes) that enable users to carry out the checkout process themselves

Companies providing hardware and software solutions (including cameras, sensors, and AI computer vision solutions for stores) to enable customers to completely avoid the checkout process (allowing them to enter a store, pick up an item, and exit the store)

Solutions in the industry are often powered by AI, and ML

Solutions in the industry are often powered by IoT, cloud computing, AI, and ML

Companies in “automated checkout” often use IoT

<div>
 
 <ul>
 <li>SeeChange Technologies, a developer of a visual AI-powered platform for retail stores, has raised GBP 8 million (USD 10 million) in a seed extension round led by Crane Venture Partners and Triple Point Ventures, with participation from new investors Runa Capital, True, Portfolio Ventures, and Material Ventures.</li>
 <li>SeeChange aims to utilize the funding to increase the commercial reach of its platform, “SeeWare,” and strengthen the company’s commercial and support teams.&nbsp;</li>
 <li>In connection with the funding round, the company also appointed Richard Irving, the co-founder of venture capital firm Pond Venture Partners, as chairman. Irving has 40 years of international operating and venture capital experience.&nbsp;</li>
 <li>SeeChange develops an AI-powered platform for processing video from existing&nbsp; CCTV, checkout, and POS hardware at retail stores. The technology can be utilized for preemptive stockout management and recognition of non-barcoded fresh produce at self-checkouts.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>
 
</div>

SeeChange

About EDGE

Contact Us

Resources

Area of Focus

Technology Research Made Effortless