Virtualstock’s 2024: a year of big wins
This year, Virtualstock has gone from strength to strength, cementing our position as a key player in retail tech. From exciting partnerships, prestigious awards under our belt, and 103 media features, we’re gearing up for an even bigger 2025. But first, let’s take a moment to look back at the highlights of this impactful year.
Forging powerhouse partnerships
2024 was all about partnerships that pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in retail.
We joined forces with major players like Bensons for Beds, Robert Dyas, The Range, and B&Q to help them unlock new growth opportunities, connect with our trusted supplier network, and innovate using dropship and online marketplace strategies. These collaborations show just how committed we are to making retail simpler, smarter, and more profitable.
Our partnership with commercetools introduced cutting-edge automated order and inventory management systems, transforming supply chain operations for retailers.
As we wrapped up the year, our milestone partnership with ASDA marked a pivotal moment for Virtualstock, solidifying our presence in the grocery and apparel sectors, enabling ASDA to rapidly onboard suppliers like Decathlon and expand its product range.
This partnership signified a broader shift within retail, with industry leaders embracing the trend of combining dropshipping with curated marketplaces to expand their online ranges, offering greater choice while maintaining a controlled customer experience. Retailers benefit from real-time inventory updates, increased revenue opportunities whilst enhancing customer experiences. Meanwhile, Virtualstock’s platform simplifies integration for suppliers, enabling seamless onboarding without the need for complex IT resources.
Across these collaborations, our focus remains clear: helping retailers and suppliers overcome complex challenges and thrive through smart, tech-driven solutions.
Shaping industry conversations
Virtualstock wasn’t just innovating behind the scenes – we were front and centre in the biggest retail conversations.
Our co-founder and CEO, Ed Bradley, shared the Virtualstock story and a bold vision for the future of dropshipping and e-commerce on the ReTec Europe Podcast, hosted by Global Top 100 Retail Influencer Paul Bessant.
We made headlines too, with Ed’s letter in City A.M. offering a fresh perspective on the future of retail, as well as our feature in TechRadar Pro, which explored how Virtualstock’s expertise is driving omnichannel solutions. By integrating dropshipping, marketplaces, and traditional inventory models, we’re enabling retailers to deliver seamless, customer-first experiences across every channel.
Meanwhile, CFO Rob Russell tackled the pressing issue of motivating finance teams during tough times, sharing insights in Raconteur. Whether navigating the cost-of-living crisis or embracing innovation, our thought leadership sparked conversations that matter.
Redefining retail strategies
One of the standout moments of the year was Vision Summit 2024, where Virtualstock brought together top retailers, suppliers, and industry experts to tackle the big questions shaping the future of dropship and curated marketplaces.
The summit was about sharing ideas, actionable insights, and building connections. The panel discussion, “Being a Dropship Supplier – The Good, Bad, and Scary,” moderated by Steve Collinge, pulled no punches. Industry heavyweights like Nick Stragnell, Dr. Tinkle Jain, and David Wick shared the highs, the hurdles, and everything in between when it comes to supplier relationships and staying ahead in the eCommerce game.
And the insights didn’t stop there. Here’s what some of our attendees had to say:
"The Virtualstock Vision Summit has been a bit like therapy, enabling us to share ideas and stories with other suppliers and retailers." – David Wick, Commercial Director at Mirror Outlet
"Curation is the key." – Paul Cairns, Partner and Operations Manager at John Lewis
"Virtualstock has been part of our journey for the last four years. If I were in my position 10 years ago, I would have implemented Virtualstock sooner." – Simon Spencelayh, MD at Robert Dyas
The summit was proof that when the right people come together to share ideas and strategies, the future of retail doesn’t just look brighter – it looks achievable.
Register your interest for Vision Summit 2025, and be part of the conversations shaping the future of retail.
Recognised for excellence
Virtualstock’s achievements were celebrated on a global stage this year, as we proudly took home five prestigious awards recognising our innovation and excellence:
2024 International Business Awards (The Stevie® Awards) in Istanbul:
🏅 Gold: Company of the Year – Retail
🥉 Bronze: Innovation of the Year – Business Service Industries
UK Business Tech Awards 2024:
🏆 eCommerce Company of the Year
🏆 SaaS Company of the Year
Global Business Tech Awards 2024:
🏆 eCommerce Company of the Year
We are proud of these accolades reflecting the impact we’re making, driving innovation and delivering exceptional results for our clients.
Looking ahead
2024 has been a year of transformation for Virtualstock. From groundbreaking partnerships to shaping the future of retail and earning global recognition, we’ve built incredible momentum that’s set to carry us into an even brighter 2025.
Ecommerce is changing fast, and with it, retailers have to adapt. In 2025, we expect to see the continued adoption of extended range strategies across the board. Speed to market is critical and new technologies including AI will allow retailers to onboard greater numbers of suppliers and products up and running quickly in order to maximise revenues. It will be an exciting year, and those who embrace the change will thrive.
As we gear up for what’s next, we’re more dedicated than ever to helping retailers tackle new challenges and uncover exciting opportunities.
Thank you to our clients, partners, and everyone who has supported us this year. Here’s to shaping the future of retail together!
