The Munich-based startup Delicious Data (formerly Noyanum) wants to fight food waste with machine learning and algorithms. From the Gate Business Startup Center This idea conquers Catering establishments. More than 30 cafeterias and canteens are already planning their purchases with the help of the startup. And
The two founders were also able to convince several well-known investors and recently received seed funding. Valentin Belser, founder and managing director of the startup, answers our 7 questions.
1. Who are you and what do you do?
Delicious Data helps with machine learning algorithms We help restaurateurs plan their purchases more effectively. We aim to reduce overproduction and food waste. Our software-as-a-service solution leverages our customers' historical data. We combine data from operators of cafeterias, dining halls, restaurant chains, hotels, and hospitals with other external factors such as the weather or calendar data.
This allows us to more accurately predict how many guests will eat which menu in the future, providing valuable knowledge to support restaurateurs and kitchen management.
Predictive Analytics for the Hospitality Industry
The idea came about in the university cafeteria during our final year of studies, at the same university where we met eight years ago during the preparatory math course. Jakob Breuninger and I, Valentin Belser, met while studying for our bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering.
Even back then, it was clear to us that we wanted to start a company together. After Jakob specialized in machine learning and predictive analytics and I told him about the idea, we didn't have to think twice.
For us, all the lights were green:
- We solve a technically challenging problem with an emerging technology.
- By avoiding food waste, we create social added value, which motivates us intrinsically.
- There is an interesting business case that is generating demand.
Win, win, win!
Delicious Data has already won more than 30 customers
2. But that's been around for a long time!
Yes, there are other startups and established companies offering or working on similar solutions. We see this as confirmation that there is a large market for our solution.
3. What has been your biggest challenge so far?
After three attempts, it is probably the time to find a name. (Editor’s note: According to FoodOracle and Noyanum now Delicious Data).
4. Let’s get down to business: How is business going?
We're on a growth trajectory. We spent the past year developing our solution full-time and are now live in over 30 cafeterias, canteens, and canteens. We're currently generating forecasts for approximately 30,000 meals per day.
We recently closed our seed funding round to expand our team and grow faster. (Editor's note: In addition to Bayern Kapital, Myke Näf (founder of Doodle), Clarissa and Michael Käfer (Käfer Capital), GeMü Beteiligung and another private investor participated in Delicious Data.
“We came to Munich specifically”
5. What does Munich mean to you?
We came to Munich specifically to found a company here because the startup ecosystem is particularly good for technology companies. Especially considering the completed financing round, we're confident it was worth it. Personally, we value the high quality of life and the proximity to the mountains, where you can often find us hiking or climbing in the summer.
6. How will your startup become the next unicorn? Or will we see you soon at Epic Fail Night?
By solving the problem of food waste in the catering industry across the industry and internationally.
7. Isar or English Garden?
Isar!
