Meet Filip Mares, Founder & CEO of Circlin AG

Tell us more about Circlin.
Circlin is a video-first, AI-powered secondhand marketplace. Sellers simply record a quick video—AI then creates the title, description, and pricing. No long forms, no guesswork. The result: listings that feel dynamic, reduce buyer questions, and help items sell faster with less hassle.

Please give some more details of your startup story: what was the “aha” moment that led to the idea for your startup?
During our move from Austria to Switzerland, we had lots of things we didn’t want to bring. Selling them was so clunky that we ended up renting a storage unit in Salzburg instead. That pain was my “aha” moment—and the items are still sitting there. Secondhand selling should be fast and simple. That’s why I started Circlin.

So, what’s next for you—what’s a bold goal you’re chasing right now?
We’re preparing to launch Circlin around mid-September, sprint to product-market fit, and then expand. Our long-term goal: become Switzerland’s #1 secondhand app—and reshape how people buy and sell used items.

Which decision (big or small) had the most unexpected positive impact on your startup?
Starting with just one category—clothing. Narrowing the scope gave us clarity and speed, and made it easier to perfect the user experience.

How did you build your team, and what helps you maintain your startup culture?
We work fully remote across Europe and the Middle East. What keeps us aligned is solving a problem that matters, plus structure. We hold weekly all-hands to share progress and weekly 1:1s with each team member to stay connected and focused.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? What are your biggest learnings?
No matter how well you plan, things usually take longer than expected. If I could do it again, I’d narrow the scope even more for the first release and stay completely focused on the core.

Building a startup requires resilience, how do you stay focused during tough times?
I stick to my routine—daily sport, meditation, and deep focus sessions on solving tough problems. Staying close to why we’re doing this also keeps me motivated.

One piece of advice for someone who is just starting out with their startup?
Fall in love with the problem and date your solution 😊.

What’s your outlook on the future of the Swiss startup scene, and how can it compete internationally?
It’s hard to predict the future, but Switzerland offers excellent conditions to compete globally: access to funding, smart talent, and a business-friendly environment.

What value do you see in being part of the Swiss Startup Association?
The network, regular events, and workshops are extremely valuable—both personally and professionally.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the community?
If you are passionate about building the next generation of marketplaces for re-commerce—let’s talk!

Check out Filip’s LinkedIn here!

About the Swiss Startup Association

The Swiss Startup Association (SSA) is the umbrella organisation and the voice of Swiss startups. As a sector-independent non-profit organisation, the SSA gives startups a strong voice vis-à-vis politics, business, and works to improve the conditions for startups in Switzerland.
Beyond its political engagement, the SSA fosters a community for startups, recognizing the unique challenges they face. Through networking opportunities, educational sessions, and practical services, the SSA collaborates with industry partners to offer tailored support and valuable resources to guide founders on their entrepreneurial journey.

Join the Swiss Startup Association! Tap into our member benefits, the comprehensive Investor List and get full access to our events. By becoming an SSA Member you enjoy discounted tickets to our Big Founders Dinners and the SSA Founders Day.