Meet Wolfgang Loerli, CEO of SOORT.eco

Please tell us about SOORT.eco

SOORT.eco was founded on a solid foundation of experience and innovation. We strategically acquired technology and a global network from NetandBuy.com, a platform with years of online shopping experience and a presence in over 1,500 shops worldwide. Recognizing the immense potential of AI technology, we carefully curated and transformed this network, setting the stage for the birth of SOORT.eco.

Our journey began in December 2022, driven by the pressing need to address the environmental and social challenges inherent in traditional online shopping practices. Fueled by our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact, we rapidly integrated cutting-edge AI technology, just weeks after its release in November. This swift adoption empowered us to pioneer a platform that empowers consumers to make sustainable choices with ease.

At our core, SOORT.eco is deeply rooted in sustainability values, guided by the mission to ‘lead the way to responsible consumption.’ This mission aligns seamlessly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG12), underpinning our commitment to promoting responsible consumer behavior.

Our dedicated team, comprising of passionate experts from diverse fields, works tirelessly to forge a path towards a brighter future for our planet. We are on a mission to revolutionize the shopping experience, leveraging our acquired expertise, innovative technology, and a wealth of experiences to drive positive change in the way people make purchasing decisions. SOORT.eco stands at the forefront of sustainable shopping, driven by a commitment to innovation and a vision of a better, more responsible future for all.

Tell us more about your plans for 2023? What is your long-term vision? 

In 2023, our focus at SOORT.eco is on rapid growth and innovation. We’re in the midst of an exciting project, developing a cutting-edge shopping copilot in collaboration with Zühlke Engineering, and we’re doing it at Silicon Valley speed. This means staying connected to the latest tools and technologies while leveraging the expertise of our entire team, which has been using AI for productivity since March.

One of our primary goals for this year is securing strategic investments. We’re actively engaging with investors and are on track to close our funding round soon. With connections to the Silicon Valley ecosystem, we’re well-positioned to harness opportunities in the tech world.

Currently, we’re making significant strides in expanding our presence. We’re already active in the DACH region and have established partnerships with 650 shops from 20 countries. Our network continues to grow, with the addition of 3-5 new partner shops per week.

In the long term, our vision is to become a global leader in sustainable consumption We aim to empower consumers worldwide to make responsible choices in their shopping, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-conscious future.”

What has been the biggest success that you have achieved in your startup?

One of our most significant successes at SOORT.eco has been the successful completion of our Alpha stage testing phase. This milestone marks a critical step in the development of our AI-driven shopping copilot. It demonstrates our team’s ability to rapidly adapt to cutting-edge technology and implement it effectively. This achievement positions us closer to our goal of revolutionizing online shopping by providing users with easy access to sustainable products and responsible consumption choices. It’s a testament to our commitment to sustainability and innovation, and it sets the stage for even greater successes in the future.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? What are your biggest learnings?

While I wouldn’t change anything about our mission or vision, I would perhaps have evaluated the team composition earlier to ensure we had the right people on board. In a startup, it’s essential to invest in talented individuals who are eager to grow and contribute to the company’s success. Those who aren’t aligned with this mindset may find themselves in the wrong role within a startup environment.

What motivates you to continue your business every day?

What motivates me every day at SOORT.eco is our mission to ‘lead the way to responsible consumption.’ Knowing that our work has the potential to make a positive impact on our planet drives me and our team forward. The urgency of addressing environmental and social challenges in the realm of online shopping fuels our commitment. Additionally, the incredible support we’ve received from our team, partners, and users keeps us motivated. We see the potential for real change and a more sustainable future, and that vision inspires us to work tirelessly toward our goals. Ultimately, it’s the opportunity to create a meaningful impact on a global scale that gets me excited to tackle each day.

One piece of advice for someone who is just starting out with their startup?

Having the right people on board can make all the difference. Additionally, embrace innovation and stay agile. The startup landscape evolves rapidly, and being adaptable to change and new technologies is crucial. Don’t be afraid to seek mentorship and guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and professionals in your field. Lastly, stay focused on your mission and the positive impact you aim to achieve.

What does it mean to you to be a member of the Swiss Startup Association?

Being a member of the Swiss Startup Association holds great personal and professional significance for me. Personally, it’s a recognition of our dedication to innovation and sustainability. It allows us to be part of a dynamic community of like-minded entrepreneurs, sharing experiences, insights, and support. Professionally, it offers valuable networking opportunities and access to resources that can accelerate our growth. It aligns us with the Swiss startup ecosystem and provides a platform to collaborate, learn, and stay updated on industry trends. Overall, being a member of the Swiss Startup Association reinforces our commitment to driving positive change through technology and responsible consumption, and we’re proud to be part of this vibrant community.

Would you recommend joining the Swiss Startup Association? 

Yes, I highly recommend joining the Swiss Startup Association. It offers valuable networking, resources, and mentorship opportunities for startups. Being part of this community provides access to a supportive ecosystem that accelerates growth and advocates for startup interests in Switzerland.

Have you ever visited the events of the Swiss Startup Association? 

I was at the Founders Academy event held on August 24, which focused on how early-stage startups can become investment-ready. This event, co-hosted by the Swiss Startup Association, Wenger Vieli, and BV4, was incredibly informative. I had the opportunity to engage with industry experts, particularly Elodie from BV4 and Michael from Wenger Vieli, both of whom left a strong impression. We’ve since established collaborations with them, and their insights have been invaluable to our startup journey.

Is there anything that we haven’t asked you that you would like to share with the community?

We’re always open to investors to help us grow.