This article is Sponsored Content by Why Unified
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, a multitude of startups seek to disrupt industries and carve out a niche for themselves. But few can boast the achievement of landing a coveted spot on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in the U.S. We sat down with Robert Nikic, the CEO of Why Unified, currently ranked #418, to understand the secret behind the company’s impressive 1,387% growth.
Welcome, Robert. Let’s dive straight in. The first question on everyone’s mind – Why “Unified”?
Robert Nikic: Thank you for having me. The name “Why Unified” stems from my belief in constantly asking “why” in order to innovate. And the “unified” part is a nod to the collective effort. It takes a cohesive team to truly innovate, and that’s what we’ve built here.
Your journey to the Inc. 5000 list is commendable. What would you say was pivotal in reaching this milestone?
Robert Nikic: Well, it’s never just one thing. It’s a culmination of over 15 years of hard work, perseverance, and relentless innovation. If one wants to become a multi-million dollar company, innovation isn’t just an option – it’s a necessity. That means, not just finding value in small areas but creating value for an entire industry.
Speaking of innovation, how has Why Unified distinguished itself in the crowded dropshipping industry?
Robert Nikic: At Why Unified, we saw a gap and aimed to fill it. We’ve enabled everyday individuals to tap into a market that was previously inaccessible to them: selling brand-name products. What’s more, they can sell them through their own stores, or on giant marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and eBay.
How exactly does this model function? It sounds like dropshipping, but you suggest there’s a twist.
Robert Nikic: While many see our platform as typical dropshipping, we offer something a bit distinct. On our platform, members get more than just software, tools, and access to sought-after products. They’re supported by a committed team that manages all aspects for them, establishing a unique hybrid model.
Essentially, an individual can set up their own shop focusing on specific niches, such as pets or personal care. They can then offer renowned brand products at prices often 70% lower than retail which consumers purchase. Subscribers earn a profit from these sales, and given the brand reputation, these products frequently experience substantial sales, especially on major platforms like Amazon. Everyone wins because consumers get a great price, and our subscribers make a margin.
How does Why Unified distinguish itself from the conventional dropshipping paradigm?
Robert Nikic: The old-school dropshipping model primarily revolves around selling unverified products from platforms like AliExpress. Often, these aren’t renowned or vetted brands. Additionally, delivery times can stretch to 4-8 weeks, leaving neither the seller nor the consumer satisfied.
In contrast, our subscribers deal in esteemed brands with 2-day shipping. These are everyday brands consumers are familiar with, only now they’re getting them at better prices. With our model, there’s no second-guessing product viability. Its market success is already established.
Many would wonder, why share this opportunity? Why not monopolize it for Why Unified?
Robert Nikic: It’s all about scale and mutual growth. While we do earn a small margin from each product sold, the sheer volume of sales made possible by our vast subscriber base significantly amplifies our earnings. This also holds us accountable to our subscribers. Their success translates directly to our success.
Being on the Inc. 5000 list is no small feat. How does it feel, especially given that Why Unified is the only dropshipping platform on the list?
Robert Nikic: Honestly, it was a surprise. The fact that no other dropshipping platform made the list speaks volumes. While it’s incredibly rewarding and validates our approach, it’s also a tad concerning. It suggests that there’s limited innovation in the industry. My question is, why has no one else stepped up? Why was the industry forgotten?
So, what’s next for Why Unified?
Robert Nikic: This is just the beginning for us. Our dedication to uphold our position as industry leaders remains unwavering. We are set on continuously challenging the norms, innovating, and navigating through the industry’s bureaucratic hurdles.
In Conclusion
Why Unified has truly disrupted the dropshipping industry, making it the only platform of its kind to be recognized on the Inc. 5000 list. The company’s dedication to innovation and collaborative approach seems to be the key ingredients in its recipe for success. Only time will tell what other boundaries they will push, but for now, Why Unified stands as a beacon of innovation in the dropshipping realm.
