GenAI start-up Shootify closes pre-seed round

Accelerated in 2024 by Magic Mind – Italy's first accelerator dedicated to developing AI-based startups – Shootify has developed proprietary generative AI technology specialized for the fashion sector. Its aim is to radically transform the production of images for fashion e-commerce sales channels. Shootify’s platform “brings to life” simple photos of clothing, turning them into professional photoshoots. The platform offers unique flexibility, allowing brands to use both virtual and real models. This versatility caters to various market demands and consumer preferences, enhancing the effectiveness of a sales channel that is increasingly central to the industry.

The Swiss-Italian startup, founded in June 2024, closed its first pre-seed round of EUR300k just a few months after completing Magic Mind. Investors include Zest, Fondazione Compagnia di San Paolo (Magic Mind Accelerator), and Business Angels.

Shootify’s solution is appreciated by key industry brands, starting with GAS. Thanks to Shootify, GAS was able to produce high-quality images for its GAS x Pramac capsule collection in just a few days, even before the collection physically arrived in Italy. These images achieved some of the best conversion performance on the website.

Shootify has already demonstrated promising results with its first clients, including a 70% reduction in image production costs and a 90% decrease in the time required to produce them. "The fashion e-commerce sector is facing critical challenges," explains Luca Ambrosini, CEO of Shootify. "Brands spend enormous resources on product photos, yet 70% of consumers don’t identify with the models used, leading to high return rates. Our technology allows brands to create high-quality images across a variety of models, reducing costs and increasing conversions. Shootify’s mission is twofold," Ambrosini concludes. "We free fashion brands from the costly burden of image production, offering a solution that drastically cuts expenses. At the same time, we will redefine fashion e-commerce standards by enabling engaging and personalized online shopping experiences. We envision a future where every consumer can view clothing on models that reflect their own body type, increasing conversions and reducing returns. With Shootify, brands can achieve operational efficiency while delivering excellent customer experiences."

"We believe that in Europe, innovation in generative AI will come from developing verticals and sector-specific use cases. To create successful verticals, it’s crucial to have deep knowledge of the various application areas, their business dynamics, and market trends, along with mastery of the technology. The Shootify team possesses both of these qualities, and they combine them with a remarkable speed of execution in a sector – fashion – where Italy and Europe undoubtedly have an edge over the rest of the world," comments Michele Novelli, Partner at Zest Investments.

(Press release / LC)
Picture: Shootify