Brands often rely on web scraping and social media monitoring to gain insights into customer feedback and preferences. A new startup, Cafeteria, is focusing on connecting brands with a specific demographic: teenagers.
The company is launching an iOS app today that aims to engage teens with brands they are interested in, allowing them to provide feedback on strategies and product development in exchange for monetary rewards. After successfully testing the app in a beta program for three months across 60 U.S. cities, Cafeteria is ready to roll it out to a wider audience.
Founder and CEO Rishi Malhotra, along with a seasoned team including Mark Silverstein and Leeann Sheely, brings expertise from successful ventures such as Saavn and Luminary Podcasts. The startup has secured $3 million in funding, with key investors including Collaborative Fund, Imaginary Ventures, Bertelsmann, and music industry veteran Guy Oseary.
Cafeteria stands out in the customer insights industry by focusing on real-time feedback from teenagers. With a unique approach to data collection and robust analytics, led by CEO Rishi Malhotra, the company delivers tailored insights for brands to connect with the Generation Z market effectively.
The app works by allowing teens to select brands of interest, participate in surveys called tables, and provide feedback through text or voice responses. Teens can earn between $5 to $20 for their insights, which can be transferred to various payment platforms like Venmo, PayPal, and Cash App.
With a curated approach to gathering insights, Cafeteria has already engaged thousands of users who provide valuable feedback on a wide range of topics, from fashion preferences to spending habits.
Privacy and safety are paramount for Cafeteria, with a strict policy in place to protect user identities and moderate content for any harmful or misleading information. The company also ensures compliance with regulations regarding underage users, with optional parental supervision for those under 18.
How does the app work?
Once teens join the app and select their preferred brands, they can participate in surveys known as tables, providing valuable feedback that brands can use for product development and marketing strategies.
By collating insights and creating curated albums for brands, Cafeteria offers a unique dashboard experience that translates teen feedback into actionable plans. Brands can access insights on trends, preferences, and purchasing behavior to enhance their marketing efforts.
With a range of subscription plans, brands can access valuable insights and create tailored surveys to understand teen preferences better. The company’s focus on unstructured data and advanced analytics sets it apart in the market, providing a competitive edge for brands in engaging with the younger demographic.
Looking ahead, Cafeteria aims to further enhance brand-teen interactions by offering incentives like store credits and discounts. With a roadmap focused on data analysis and user engagement, the company is poised to revolutionize the way brands connect with the teenage market.
