Disruptors & Innovators in Retail 2025 Top 30 report launches
Retail Insider is pleased to launch the ‘Disruptors & Innovators in Retail’ Top 30’ report in partnership with the Retail Technology Show.
This annual report champions progressive individuals from across the retail sector, who are fundamentally impacting the constantly changing retail landscape. From industry veterans to rising stars and high achievers, the report highlights the best examples of individuals whose disruptive approaches are redefining retail.
The list has been curated by an Advisory Panel of experienced individuals from across the retail eco-system who have considered a strong array of candidates for this year’s Top 30. They collectively concluding that Adam Jay, CEO of Vinted, retains the top spot to be 2025’s top retail disruptor.
Jay holds on to his number one position for the second year in a row, having continued to grow Vinted’s pre-loved marketplace at pace while simultaneously putting second-hand and circular retail models back at the forefront of fashion. Its removal of sellers’ fees and the recent expansion into hosting business sellers are contributing to its ongoing revenue growth that has made it Europe’s leading second-hand fashion marketplace.
In second place is Carl Pei, founder & CEO of Nothing, a fast-growth challenger smartphone and tech brand that is taking on the big guns of mobile technology, while third place is taken by Tom & Phil Beahon, co-founders of performance sportswear brand Castore.
Top 10 Disruptors & Innovators in Retail 2025
Adam Jay, CEO, Vinted
Carl Pei, Founder & CEO, Nothing
Tom & Phil Beahon, co-founders, Castore
Clare Hornby, Founder, ME+EM
George & Michael Heaton, Co-Founders, Represent Clothing
Jenna Meek and Jess Hunt, Co-Founders, REFY
Olivia Ferdi, Co-Founder, Trip
Paige Williams, Founder, P. Louise
Joe Wilkinson, Founder & CEO, Mile
Jezz Skelton, Founder & CEO, Abbott Lyon
Fashion again performed strongly within the top 10 disruptors, with high-end DTC fashion brand ME+EM’s founder, Clare Hornby, coming in fourth, following expansion into the US and a first UK flagship store opened in London. In fifth place is luxury streetwear Represent’s founders, George and Michael Heaton, and Joe Wilkinson, founder of Mile, an invite-only, membership subscription service for luxury fashion purveying ‘unsold’ stock from brands including Missoni, took ninth spot.
The publication of the report is possible through the diligent work of the Advisory Panel who have brought their incredible experience to bear in ensuring the Top 30 truly reflects the most progressive individuals within the retail industry and its wider eco-system.
Matt Bradley, event director at the Retail Technology Show, says: “Once again, Glynn and his Retail Insider Advisory Board have done a stellar job in discovering and shining a light on those disruptors who are reimagining retail. Whether it’s blending innovation with compelling retail offers, bringing new, greener ways for shoppers to consume goods, or optimising operating models and channel mix, the top 10 disruptors are showcasing the art of the possible and shaking up the status quo of the sector.”
To access this year’s report click here.
To register for free to attend RTS 2025, click here.
Glynn Davis, editor, Retail Insider