Whatnot secures 265 million dollars Series E

What comes after traditional e-commerce? Whatnot shows that the future is live. Whatnot becomes a 5 billion dollar startup with Series E round.

Los Angeles, January 9, 2025 - Whatnot, the largest marketplace for live shopping in the US, UK and Europe, announces the closing of a $265 million Series E funding round. The round was led by Greycroft, DST Global and Avra, with participation from new investors including Lightspeed Venture Partners and Durable Capital Partners. Previous backers include Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), CapitalG, BOND and Y Combinator. This brings the company's valuation to 4.97 billion US dollars.

Massive increase in gross merchandise value

The gross merchandise value (GMV) of livestream sales exceeded USD 3 billion in 2024 - a sign of the platform's exponential growth. Both the number of sellers and first-time buyers on the marketplace doubled last year, resulting in a doubling of sales volume.

We are completely redefining how people shop online. Our platform enables sellers to create thriving businesses while buyers discover unique products in a social environment. This investment is helping us to make live shopping even more accessible and innovative.

Grant LaFontaine, co-founder and CEO of Whatnot

Expansion and strategic investments

The funding will be used to develop seller tools, expand geographically and increase security. In addition, Whatnot is planning a $72 million share buyback program to increase employee retention worldwide.

Whatnot has revolutionized the shopping experience, creating a model that combines social, mobile and live commerce. This platform has the potential to transform the $7 trillion retail market in the US.

Marcie Vu, Partner at Greycroft

Global expansion and economic stimulus

The company has expanded into new markets, including Germany, France and the Netherlands. In October, it published the first State of Livestream Selling Report, which highlights the economic benefits of live selling for small businesses: Two thirds of sellers generate over 10,000 dollars in monthly sales, and one third employ more than six people.

In Germany, too, there are already successful examples of the live shopping concept in the retail sector. Platforms such as About You and Douglas show that interactive sales formats, where products can be presented live and purchased directly, are attracting growing interest from consumers. Nevertheless, it will probably be some time before this type of sale penetrates the entire market. In Germany in particular, many customers continue to attach great importance to personal advice and individual support - factors that continue to play a key role in the purchasing process.