Paddle8 operates an online marketplace that enables discovery, sale and purchase of artworks, furniture, jewelry and luxury collectibles via for-profit auctions, non-profit auctions and private sales. Founded in 2011 by Alexander Gilkes, Aditya Julka and Osman Khan, the company serves both veteran and novice collectors. It serves a community of more than 500,000 collectors worldwide and maintains additional offices in Los Angeles and London. Paddle8 reported $35.8M in total revenue in 2014 (a 146% increase from 2013) and $25M in revenue in the first half of 2015. The company plans to expand its global presence in the U.S. and Europe, hire talent across major areas of the business—particularly its engineering team—and grow categories such as vintage accessories and design. Paddle8 also intends to invest in app and mobile capabilities to support its marketplace. Paddle8 operates a curated online marketplace and a patented transaction platform that enables collectors and galleries to buy, ship, insure and install contemporary artworks. The site offers curated selections, insider opinions and partnerships with institutions and galleries to broaden access to art. Paddle8 has formed partnerships with museums including LACMA, over 200 galleries such as Gagosian and David Zwirner, art fairs like NADA, and brands including NetJets, Edmiston and Krug. Launched in May 2011 by Aditya Julka and Alexander Gilkes and led by Managing Director Osman Khan and Managing Editor Andrea Hill, the company targets both new and seasoned collectors. The company plans to use new capital to launch a redesigned user interface focused on collector-to-collector engagement, dynamic editorial and customized navigation. It also intends to roll out tools and services for galleries, including a point-of-sale transaction platform, private rooms and mobile applications.

Total raised

$38M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Series C

Latest activity

Oct 2015