Smart vending startup Wendor raises $2.5 million in funding from Elanpro

Wendor, a Delhi-based smart vending solutions startup, has raised $2.5 million (approximately Rs 21 crore) from commercial refrigeration company Elanpro, in a deal that combines equity and debt financing.

The funding, which includes Rs 5 crore in equity and Rs 16 crore in debt, will support Wendor's plans to strengthen its AI-driven retail automation platform and expand both domestically and overseas.

As part of this strategic investment, the startup will also receive operational support from Elanpro, enabling it to leverage an extensive service and logistics network across India. 

The funding will be directed toward advancing AI-powered vending technology, developing computer vision solutions, and strengthening Wendor's market presence both in India and globally.

What does Wendor do?

Founded in 2021 by Lakshit Anand, Wendor is a provider of AI-driven vending and automated retail solutions in India. The startup will further enhance its AI-driven vending technology to improve inventory management, minimize shrinkage, and boost operational efficiency.

It will focus on investing in Camera-based product & quantity detection systems for real-time tracking, AI-powered demand forecasting to analyse consumer behaviour and optimize product offerings, and Advanced automation to create a seamless, data-driven retail experience.

Leadership comments

"This investment marks a turning point in Wendor's mission to revolutionize automated retail. With Elanpro’s financial backing and operational expertise, we are well-positioned to execute an ambitious expansion strategy across India and internationally. Our focus on AI-driven innovation will redefine vending as a smarter, more efficient, and engaging retail experience.," said Lakshit Anand.

This collaboration grants Wendor access to Elanpro's robust service infrastructure, including Nationwide warehousing & dealer network for enhanced service capabilities, Import-export logistics support to facilitate international expansion, and Integrated hardware, software & refrigeration expertise to ensure reliable maintenance and superior customer service. 

Sanjay Jain, Director of Elanpro, said, "We are excited to support Wendor's growth journey. Our extensive service network, import-export capabilities, and dealer partnerships will provide Wendor with the operational muscle needed to scale efficiently. This partnership strengthens Wendor's position in India while setting the stage for global expansion."

Planning to launch experience centres

Wendor plans to launch ten experience centres across key metro and Tier-1 cities in the next two months. These centres will provide customers with hands-on interaction with Wendor's advanced vending solutions, including AI-based product recognition, Automated inventory tracking, and Refrigeration-integrated vending technology.

Furthermore, the startup is looking for international expansion, targeting the Middle East and Southeast Asia as key growth markets. 

It claims to have established collaborations, including NAFED and installations at government offices, including Rashtrapati Bhawan, Vending machines at Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri in partnership with Uttar Pradesh State Tourism & Agra Development Authority, and Brand partnerships with Coca-Cola, Amul, Nivea, Apollo Hospitals, Unilever, and Fortis.