Modcloth – Model of Tomorrow (and Yesterday)

The ModCloth fulfillment center in Pittsburgh - efficiency like the old Pittsburgh; growth in California style.

The ModCloth fulfillment center in Pittsburgh – efficiency like the old Pittsburgh; growth in California style.

 

I had the chance last week to visit the Modcloth fulfillment center – and boy was I shocked. (“Impressed” would work too – and be an equal descriptor).

I’ve heard for a few years about how the company was growing on the strength of retro styled clothing (hence the yesterday) – and that they have kept a foot in Pittsburgh while growing here and in California.  My college-aged daughter and her friends drool over their fashions – and at least one has based her entire wardrobe on Modcloth purchases.

So when I traveled into my old neighborhood and found a grand fulfillment center and offices a mile away from the condo I used to own, my eyes got wide.

It didn’t take me long to realize the Modcloth team has its act together.  Alex Kyyashko (senior industrial engineer) and Aire Plichta (fashion press specialist) showed me around the fulfillment center and let me ask questions ranging from the usual business stuff to the more arcane operational questions – and demonstrated that the company has a focus on efficiency in the present and an eye for the future – even though they’ve made a reputation with clothes reminiscent of the past.

Udi Nir, the company’s chief technology officer, spoke of vision – not of technology, making it clear that the company uses technology as a tool to serve its markets.  Unlike many CTOs, he’s interested in relationships – in his markets and in the communities his company serves.

Despite the growth, the company seems to have maintained its start-up atmosphere, with lots of the perks you see in Silicon Valley and its own distinct Modcloth style.

 

 

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