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Ayyappan R’s FirstClub Raises $8 Million in Funding FirstClub Technology Pvt. Ltd., founded by Ayyappan R, has successfully raised $8 million. This funding comes in a seed funding round led by Accel and RTP Global. The round also included participation from Blume Founders Fund, Quiet Capital, 2 am VC, and prominent angel investors. These include Binny Bansal (Flipkart), Kunal Shah (CRED), Mukesh Bansal (Myntra, Cult), and others. This investment marks a significant step for the startup as it works to revolutionise the Indian retail experience. FirstClub Vision: Redefining Omnichannel Retail FirstClub is a members-only retail platform with a focus on offering luxury products to the Indian consumer. It will offer a new blend of short-video, e-commerce, and physical stores shopping in one integrated system. This is to make shopping easier, available and responsive to current market demands. The initial product range will include mass-premium items such as food, FMCG, dairy, bakery, and health products. The startup is also focusing on connecting regional specialties, international gourmet products, and innovative D2C brands. This approach will aim to offer Indian consumers unique shopping experiences that prioritise quality, affordability, and convenience. Ayyappan R explained, “Our goal is to empower Indian consumers with quality products at fair prices.” He added that the company hopes to connect Indian customers to both local and international choices. The company’s full platform is expected to go live by mid-2025. Purpose of the Recent Fundraising The $8 million raised in this funding round will help it allocated in a way that will ensure its progress. The company aims at enhancing its technological platform and building additional omnichannel retail strategy. Additionally, the funding will allow it to expand its product range and enhance customer shopping journeys. Ayyappan’s vision focuses on establishing a trusted platform that values quality, innovation, and variety while connecting consumers to unique experiences. Investors expressed confidence in FirstClub’s potential to reshape the retail market. Barath Shankar Subramanian from Accel noted that it could lead modern retail experiences through trust, convenience, and quality. Nishit Garg from RTP Global praised Ayyappan’s experience and leadership, calling it a fresh approach to retail.