Verme and M.Video: A Tale of Growth Amidst Challenges

August 29, 2024, 2:02 am
М.Видео
Location: Russia, Moscow
Employees: 501-1000
Founded date: 1993
In the bustling world of business, change is the only constant. Two companies, Verme and M.Video, illustrate this truth vividly. Both are navigating the waters of the Russian market, each carving out its niche. Verme, an HR tech company, is expanding its ownership structure. M.Video, a consumer electronics giant, is reporting growth in a challenging environment. Together, they paint a picture of resilience and adaptation.

Verme recently announced a shift in its ownership. Nikolai Galyanov now holds a 5% stake in the company. This change comes as Olga Shekhodanova’s share decreases from 33.5% to 28.5%. Dmitry Shekhodanov, the company’s leader, retains a significant 46%. The technical director, Evgeny Vizgalov, holds 10%, while Dmitry Belsky, head of new sales channels, owns 7.5%. The remaining 3% belongs to Free Invest LLC.

This restructuring hints at a strategic move. Verme, founded in 2016, is a resident of Skolkovo and a portfolio company of the Free Innovations Fund (FRII). Its flagship product is a cloud-based solution for automating staff scheduling. This tool is essential for businesses managing large teams. The company’s ecosystem is expanding, with the addition of “Moya Smena,” a mobile app for job seekers. This app connects users with part-time work in major retail chains.

Verme’s client list reads like a who’s who of retail. Companies like M.Video, Leroy Merlin, and Ekonika rely on Verme’s services. In 2024 alone, Verme completed 50 projects, showcasing its growing influence. The partnership with M.Video is particularly noteworthy. Their joint project, the “Shift Exchange,” won the RB Digital Awards 2023 in the HR and Internal Communications category. This recognition underscores Verme’s innovative approach to workforce management.

Financially, Verme is on an upward trajectory. By the end of 2023, its revenue grew by 21%, reaching 300.2 million rubles. The net profit stood at 59.1 million rubles. These figures reflect a company that is not just surviving but thriving. The changes in ownership may signal a push for further growth and innovation.

On the other hand, M.Video is navigating a different landscape. The electronics retailer reported a 13% increase in gross merchandise value (GMV) for the first half of 2024. This figure reached 247 billion rubles, equivalent to approximately $2.7 billion. Revenue mirrored this growth, also rising by 13% to 202 billion rubles. However, the company faces headwinds. Core earnings dipped slightly to 6.5 billion rubles. The CEO acknowledged the cooling demand in the consumer electronics market.

Despite these challenges, M.Video remains a key player. The company’s ability to maintain growth in revenue and GMV is commendable. It reflects a robust business model and a loyal customer base. The electronics market is notoriously volatile. Yet, M.Video’s performance suggests it is weathering the storm.

Both Verme and M.Video exemplify the dynamic nature of the Russian market. Verme is innovating in HR tech, while M.Video is solidifying its position in consumer electronics. Their paths may differ, but both companies are focused on growth.

Verme’s expansion of ownership may lead to new strategies and partnerships. The inclusion of Galyanov could bring fresh perspectives. Meanwhile, M.Video’s steady growth indicates resilience. The company is adapting to market conditions while continuing to invest in its future.

In conclusion, the stories of Verme and M.Video are interconnected. They highlight the importance of adaptability in business. Verme is reshaping its ownership to foster innovation. M.Video is navigating a challenging market while maintaining growth. Together, they illustrate the spirit of resilience in the face of adversity. As they move forward, their journeys will undoubtedly inspire others in the industry. The landscape may be unpredictable, but with the right strategies, success is within reach.