Gemba

Gemba (formerly known as Leadership Network) is a UK-based company that offers VR "masterclasses” on topics such as supply chain management, lean manufacturing, innovation, and intelligent engineering, through the Meta Quest headset. The company delivered its first VR enterprise training in 2019, having conducted in-person masterclasses prior to it. To create the learning experiences, the company collaborates with industry experts to facilitate the sessions, with the VR environments being built through the Unity Engine. The courses are designed for senior-level executives, who are able to join the VR environment as avatars to learn and network with other participants in the masterclass. Gemba's VR training program, which can accommodate up to 25 people per class, enables participants to participate in the simulation by conversing with other users, interacting with objects, and by walking in the environment. A core feature of the programs is the elimination of travel and subsequent carbon emission costs. Per person program pricing is GBP 5,995 (~USD 7,200), with enterprise subscriptions available for a team of 50 participants starting at GBP 99,990 annually (~USD 120,000). For larger-scale rollouts, the enterprise subscription cost can go up to ~USD 1.2 million. Participants are provided with Meta Quest headsets at the end of the program, but for enterprise subscriptions, companies buy the headsets separately and reuse them for future programs.

In addition to its virtual masterclasses, Gemba provides an accelerator program called The Lean Learning Accelerator. The program features ready-made content on lean manufacturing and learning techniques developed in collaboration with companies such as Aptiv, BD, and Philips along with support from industry professionals.

In November 2019, the Gemba platform was selected by Meta as part of its Oculus Independent Software Vendors program to accelerate VR adoption by enterprises. In May 2021, the company mentioned that it was working on integrating digital photo realistic versions of staff and speakers on the Gemba platform, and, in January 2023, it announced that it was working on expanding platform compatibility with other VR and AR devices.

Key customers and partnerships

The company’s platform has been used by over 700 corporations (January 2024), including Unilever, AstraZeneca, Nike, GSK, Bayer, adidas, Volvo, and Carlsberg.

Funding and financials

In January 2023, Gemba raised USD 18 million in a Series A funding round led by Parkway Venture Capital. Funds were earmarked to expand its operations across the EMEA region and eventually into the North American market.

Competitors: None. (The product offering is unique; Gemba offers masterclasses specifically geared toward senior corporate executives).