Social commerce firm
8thBridge continues on its growth track by
bringing on an experienced ecommerce leader as its Chief Product Officer.
Jon Kubo, former SVP of ecommerce and CIO of
Wet Seal, joined the firm at the beginning of October, and 8thBridge CEO Wade Gerten noted that the addition would strengthen the company's position in the marketplace and prepare it for the next stage of growth.
Formerly known as Alvenda, 8thBridge was the 2009
Minnesota Cup winner, and managed to sustain quite a bit of momentum after that win. In March, the company raised $10 million in a series B funding round led by venture firm
Trident Capital.
Over the past two years, the company has made some significant deals, such as the opening of the first Facebook retail store for
1-800-Flowers in 2009. A recent win came when
20th Century Fox used 8thBridge to offer group rewards on Facebook. Other clients include
Delta Airlines,
Paramount Pictures,
Best Buy, and
Lands' End.
"This is a really compelling opportunity to join one of the hottest social media companies today," Kubo said in a press release about the appointment. "The social commerce industry is projected to grow to $30 billion by 2015 and 8thBridge is best positioned to capitalize on this opportunity."
Kubo's track record at Wet Seal is impressive; he launched the company's website in 2008, then brought on Facebook, iPhone, iPad, and Android versions that allow shoppers to interact with the retailer's content. Prior to Wet Seal, Kubo led the launch of
FAO Schwarz's online presence, as well as the relaunch of the toy retailer's stores.
Source: 8th Bridge
Writer: Elizabeth Millard