Chowbus is a technology company renowned for its platform offering authentic Asian cuisine from local independent restaurants. Founded in 2016 by Linxin Wen and Suyu Zhang, Chowbus is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The platform initially started as an online food delivery service but has since evolved to provide restaurant technology solutions. As of its latest funding round in August 2024, Chowbus has raised a total of $105 million over several rounds, with major investors including Greycroft and Prysm Capital.
Chowbus has been transitioning from a delivery-centric model to a technology-focused company, emphasizing enhancing restaurant operations through SaaS platforms and POS systems. The transition was part of a strategic move to leverage its technology in empowering restaurant partners.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2016 |
| Headquarters | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Founders | Linxin Wen, Suyu Zhang |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | $44 million (approx.) |
| Key Investors | Greycroft, Prysm Capital, Meritech |
| Industry | Restaurant Technology |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 500 |
Chowbus was founded in Chicago in 2016 by Linxin Wen and Suyu Zhang. The company was established to fill a gap in the food delivery industry by providing access to authentic Asian cuisine, which was underrepresented on major delivery platforms. Linxin Wen was motivated by his own struggles to find genuine Asian food options when he first moved to the United States. Starting as an exclusive food delivery service, Chowbus focused on local Asian restaurants, providing them not only a platform but also marketing and logistics support to help them reach a broader audience.
Chowbus initially thrived on its unique dish-centric mobile ordering experience, connecting users to a wide variety of local Asian restaurants. Over time, the company has expanded its offerings to include technology services for the restaurant industry, such as point-of-sale (POS) systems and cloud-based software.
Key Achievements:
Currently, Chowbus positions itself as a prominent player in the restaurant technology sector. Utilizing its cloud-based POS systems, Chowbus enhances operational efficiencies and data analytics for its partners. Its strategic focus on restaurant software has allowed it to carve out a niche in the competitive restaurant technology industry.
Chowbus continues to hold a significant presence in North American markets, with a sustained effort on expanding its technological service offerings. Its competitive advantage lies in its established relationships with local Asian restaurants and its ability to provide them with integrated technology solutions that streamline operations and enhance customer experiences.
Chowbus has established itself as a critical driver of innovation within the restaurant technology sector. Transitioning from a food delivery service to a sophisticated technology provider, Chowbus continues to empower Asian restaurants with tools essential for growth and efficiency. Looking ahead, Chowbus's focus on expanding its SaaS and POS offerings is set to position it strategically for sustained growth, aligning with trends in technology reliance within the restaurant industry.