Fashion and beauty technology platform Refined Networks completes £2.5 million Series A round

UK-based Refined Networks, a technology platform for cross-border digital commerce, has announced the completion of a £2.5 million Series A round backed by Souter Investments, in conjunction with the Rueff family and existing seed round investors, including former TFG London CEO, Ben Barnett, and JJill Inc Chair, Michael Rahamim.

Brands (including Lindex, Marc O’Polo, IKKS Paris, By Malina, Saint Tropez and Petit Bateau) work with Refined Networks to drive their cross-border online sales through partners including John Lewis, Next, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols.

The funding round will enable the firm to launch internationally in A/W23, taking its existing brand portfolio and a curated selection of UK brands into platforms and marketplaces across Europe, North America and the Middle East.

Refined Networks was co-founded by Sune Bjerregaard (former CEO of Masai) and Ian Wallis (former Global Retail Director at Phase Eight) and is chaired by Ben Barnett (former CEO of TFG London, the owner of the Hobbs, Whistles and Phase Eight brands).

Wallis says: “I am delighted to welcome our new shareholders, who join us at such an exciting time in our growth journey.”

“The current year will see a further acceleration through new brands, platforms, marketplaces and verticals in the UK market, as well as growing our existing brand partners locally and into new geographies.”

Bjerregaard comments: “Refined Networks enables consumer brands to grow their international trade through our scalable technology and logistics solution that connects them with our network of curated platforms and marketplaces.”

“We can drive significant sales growth for our brand partners by leveraging our relationships and industry expertise alongside the inventory, channel and logistics tools needed to succeed.”

Barnett adds: “Refined Networks has established a unique route to market for international fashion brands that is rapidly gaining traction. I am excited to work with the platform’s founders and senior leadership team to take their exceptional brand portfolio forwards.”