Selvers is a startup that offers an offline smart store solution based on artificial intelligence (AI) agents. It was founded by CEO Kim Gi-dong in November 2016. While working on service planning and online marketing at the Samsung Economic Research Institute and KOLON FnC, he discovered a market opportunity in the digital transformation (DX) service sector.
In the early stages of the startup, CEO Kim developed and provided services such as smart ordering and kiosks. This business supports the digital transformation of small business owners. Subsequently, he pivoted to an AI agent-based offline smart store service while moving towards business advancement. This service provides AI agent functions to small business owners, supporting their growth from simple smart ordering to smart stores. Recently, he has also strengthened his focus on sports facilities such as billiard rooms and table tennis halls.
The global AI agent market, as observed by CEO Kim, is projected to grow to $47.1 billion (approximately 64.8 trillion won) by 2030. He particularly noted the increase in the proportion of ‘one-person business owners,’ referring to self-employed individuals who do not hire employees due to labor cost burdens. According to the Statistical Office, there are 4,215,000 one-person business owners in Korea, accounting for 75% of all self-employed individuals. CEO Kim emphasized, “We can address the manpower issues of small businesses through automation and AI technology.”
The strengths of Selvers’s AI agent smart store solution lie in resource savings and improved operational convenience. Increased sales are also anticipated. In stores using smart ordering, restaurant managers need to register and manage menus every time. However, Selvers’s solution allows for easy setup of menus with a single button, as well as supports various strategies to increase sales, such as analyzing existing sales data to recommend set menus that customers are likely to enjoy.
It also suggests various collaborations that can create synergistic effects in sales, such as discount coupons with nearby stores. He has especially focused on strengthening businesses in sports facilities such as billiard rooms and table tennis halls. For example, meals at nearby restaurants can come with discounts if enjoyed after a sports activity. CEO Kim stated, “We are actively conducting businesses that connect various stores, such as offering discount coupons for meals after playing billiards.” He believes this can also revitalize local commercial districts.
Since its founding, Selvers has recorded cumulative sales of approximately 5 billion won. Currently, there are 3,573 stores nationwide providing this solution. It has gained recognition for its growth potential, securing an investment of 200 million won on a cumulative basis.
Of course, there have been challenges in managing the company. CEO Kim mentioned, “Due to not participating in a government project related to the digital transformation of small businesses in 2023, which accounts for about 50% of the company’s sales, we incurred a deficit. However, our team came together to increase sales and rebuild our growth momentum.” Selvers plans to secure follow-up investments in the second half of this year, apply an advertising revenue model, and enter overseas markets.