Gelato: a revolution in eco-friendly e-commerce

Founded in 2007 by CEO Henrik Müller-Hansen, Gelato has become a major force in digital commerce. With a business model that promotes local, on-demand production, Gelato operates in 32 countries, effectively minimizing the logistics footprint of production and distribution. The Oslo-based company represents a new era of efficient and responsible manufacturing with its extensive network of offices around the world, including Atlanta, Berlin and Singapore.

Core features of the Gelato platform

At the heart of Gelato’s innovation is GelatoConnect, a platform designed to integrate the world’s print manufacturers into a cohesive network. This system enables efficient management and shipping of products and significantly reduces production times and overhead costs. Using advanced software solutions, GelatoConnect enables manufacturers worldwide to centrally manage their operations while carrying out production locally.

Environmental benefits of on-demand production

The on-demand production model is a cornerstone of Gelato’s strategy to combat the environmental problems that plague traditional manufacturing practices, particularly overproduction and excessive carbon emissions. By only producing products when they are sold and ensuring that 99% are produced and delivered within the same region – and 87% within the same country as the end customer – Gelato significantly reduces unnecessary production and transport distances, costs and emissions.

Benefits for makers and ecommerce sellers

For makers and e-commerce sellers, Gelato levels the playing field, allowing them to take advantage of production costs and delivery speeds previously only accessible to major players. The platform eliminates the need for substantial upfront investments, democratizing access to scalable business opportunities without the traditional barriers.

“Our sustainability practices resonate with our customers, who value reducing environmental impact and supporting local production,” says CEO Henrik Müller-Hansen, adding: “This often not only reflects their preference to do business more responsibly as they also value sustainability, but has also given them a competitive advantage, with consumers willing to pay a 15 to 30 percent premium for products that are made using sustainable practices and materials. . Additionally, because Gelato items are produced closer to the end consumer, customers never have to worry about their items getting stuck in customs and receive their orders faster. Those are bonuses!”

Strategic expansion and technological innovation

The company’s proactive adoption of technology and expansion of manufacturing capabilities ensures that makers and companies can quickly meet changing consumer demands.

Müller-Hansen In the near term, the company says it will continue to expand its product offering to expand the supply available for on-demand manufacturing, while also growing its network of local manufacturing partners around the world. “We are also increasing the share of non-fossil fuels in last-mile transport and improving our products and packaging from a sustainability perspective. In addition, we will continue to support makers and creators alike in creating opportunities and growing their businesses. In the medium term, we are very excited about the way 3D printing can redefine which products can be made locally and on-demand,” says Müller-Hansen.

Sustainability metrics and performance

Gelato’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its meticulous sourcing of materials and partnerships with environmentally conscious suppliers. All wood and paper products come from forests that are sustainably managed, in accordance with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifications. Gelato’s manufacturing partners adhere to the Supplier Code of Conduct, reinforcing the company’s commitment to ethical and responsible business practices, as evidenced in the recently released 2023 Sustainability Report.

Future prospects and strategic objectives

Gelato’s model represents a significant shift towards a more sustainable and efficient form of production and distribution in the digital age. By focusing on local, on-demand production, Gelato is facilitating business growth and pioneering a movement toward a more environmentally responsible world. As companies and consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability, Gelato’s model provides a blueprint for future operations in the global marketplace, highlighting that efficiency and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

Henrik Müller-Hansen stated: “Long term, we believe Gelato’s platform can redefine manufacturing and break previous barriers for individual sellers and small businesses to access a global consumer base; faster and at lower costs as the world moves towards local on-demand production. Our main competition is the old way of production. It is time to rethink production, make it accessible to everyone and bring it closer to the end consumer, benefiting both people and the planet.”