Opinions expressed by Digital Journal contributors are their own.
Since Ricky Campbell first stepped into the New York hospitality world, he has used his experiences as a chance to network and constantly build to the next best thing. His start in hospitality can be traced back to the nightlife Facebook groups he started while in college. After spending several years in college, Campbell eventually dropped out to pursue a job opportunity in finance. He got involved in several endeavors that led him to the next opportunity each step of the way. From becoming a partner in a nightclub in East Hampton to working with some of the biggest names in the business, — Tao Group, Butter Group, EMM Group and Cain Group — Campbell has remained focused and humbled throughout the entire journey.
Once he stepped back from the hospitality industry, Campbell switched his focus to the tech world. Among many of the startups that he has been involved in, one of the most notable is PearPop, an LA-based company that grew over 25,000 users in under a month. PearPop has recently clinched funding from Rocket One Capital, and it provides a market between popular TikTok celebrities and other creators like musicians or influencers. This allows the groups to collaborate or engage on TikTok to grow audiences.
Campbell is also working on a popular courier app, VIVI, which connects consumers with couriers for on-demand pickup and delivery. Consumers can request merchandise, personal items and even food to be delivered or made available for pick up. Of all of his projects, Campbell is most excited and hopeful for VIVI due to the demand for services that they provide.
Looking to the future, Campbell is especially excited about a new partnership with a hospitality group in New York that is planning to open a restaurant and speakeasy this fall in downtown Manhattan. Although hospitality was hit hard during the pandemic, Campbell is hopeful for the future and thankful for the opportunity to focus on other ventures in the meantime.
