B8ta is a software-powered retailer that aims to make physical retail accessible to small producers. It operates a retail-as-a-service model, making money from a software subscription model rather than taking a cut of sales. Specialising in the internet of things, its stores allow product makers to showcase and sell their gadgets, giving them an opportunity to get their inventory into bricks-and-mortar shops.

The startup was founded in 2015 by former Nest employees Vibhu Norby (CEO), William Mintun (chief operating officer), and Phillip Raub, who have backgrounds in retail, hardware, and software and come from companies such as Google, Apple, Nintendo and Gap.

Norby says: “B8ta makes launching products into physical retail simple, so more people have access to what the world is creating. Retail powered by b8ta’s technology provides deep insights for makers and retailers. These innovations are transforming the traditional way of doing retail by putting more control in the hands of shoppers, makers and retailers all at once.”