Plato, an AI-based operating system for
wholesale distributors, has closed a $14.5 million seed funding round led by
Atomico, with participation from existing investors including Cherry Ventures.
The distribution sector is under increasing
pressure from labour constraints, low margins, economic uncertainty, and rising
digital expectations from B2B customers. Plato aims to address these challenges
by replacing manual sales and ERP workflows with AI-driven automation designed
to improve operational efficiency and commercial performance.
Founded by Benedikt Nolte, Matthias Heinrich Morales, and Oliver Birch, Plato develops AI-native software that automates
core workflows across sales, quoting, and ERP operations for distribution
businesses. By unlocking and structuring data within legacy ERP systems, the
platform reduces manual work and enables sales teams to operate more
proactively, supporting efficiency and revenue growth.
Key capabilities include AI-driven sales
intelligence to identify customer risks and opportunities, automation of
repetitive processes such as order handling and internal communication, and
industry-specific software tailored to wholesalers managing large and complex
product portfolios.
Commenting on the company’s origins, CEO
Benedikt Nolte said Plato was built after experiencing the challenges faced by
distribution businesses firsthand, leading the team to rethink industry
workflows in collaboration with experienced technologists. He added that the
company is developing an AI operating system for distributors, starting with
intelligent sales automation.
Plato has gained early traction, signing
several large European distribution companies with six-figure average contract
values. The new funding will be used to expand the platform’s functionality
into areas such as customer service and procurement, as well as to support
international expansion.