Telio

Telio emerges as a prominent innovator within Vietnam's retail landscape. Founded in November 2018, Telio bridges the gap between traditional "mom-and-pop" shops and brands and wholesalers by establishing a centralized online platform. This innovative approach empowers small retailers by offering them a more extensive selection of products, competitive pricing, and streamlined logistics solutions.

Telio addresses a critical challenge within Vietnam's retail sector: the dominance of fragmented traditional trade channels. Kantar reports that small, independent shops account for over 60% of FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) sales in urban areas, with that number exceeding 90% in rural Vietnam. This fragmented landscape often leaves shop owners struggling with limited product selection, unclear pricing structures, and unreliable availability.

Telio's user-friendly smartphone app empowers retailers to navigate these challenges. The platform grants them access to a comprehensive selection of products from a diverse range of brands and distributors. Beyond product discovery, Telio streamlines the ordering process, allowing shop owners to efficiently select and order inventory directly through the app. Furthermore, Telio is actively building a robust network of warehouses strategically located throughout Vietnam. This infrastructure ensures efficient next-day delivery, a significant advantage that optimizes stock management and cash flow for small retailers. Led by Bui Sy Phong, a serial entrepreneur with experience founding both a peer-to-peer car rental platform and the notable e-wallet startup OnOnPay, Telio has already established a presence in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, serving over 3,000 retailers. Bolstered by recent funding, Telio charts an ambitious course for expansion. Their goals include establishing a presence in four additional Vietnamese cities, onboarding 15,000 retailers by June 2020, and expanding their platform to encompass product categories beyond FMCG. By harnessing technology to empower traditional retailers, Telio positions itself as a transformative force within Vietnam's evolving retail landscape.

In 2019, Telio raised USD 25 million in its Series A funding round led by Tiger Global. Sequoia India, GGV Capital, and RTP Global also participated in the round.

In 2021, VNG invested $22.5 million in Telio in its Pre-Series B funding round.