Rich Martell
Richard Lewis Martell | |
|---|---|
| Born | Richard Lewis Martell February 10, 1989 Bedford, England |
| Occupation | Digital entrepreneur |
| Years active | 2004–present |
| Known for | Founder of Floxx Media Group, orderswift, and creator of FitFinder; featured on Million Dollar Intern |
Richard Lewis Martell, frequently referred to as "Rich Martell" or "Dicky M" (born 10 February 1989), is a digital entrepreneur recognized for founding Floxx Media Group, orderswift, and creating FitFinder. He also gained prominence as a business specialist featured on the television program Million Dollar Intern.
Early life
At the age of 15, Martell initiated his first online venture to support himself financially while attending Bedford School and subsequently University College London. During his time at university, he gained experience working within the technology departments of investment firms such as Goldman Sachs.
FitFinder
On 23 April 2010, Martell introduced FitFinder, which was swiftly taken offline within six hours due to excessive demand and misuse. Originally designed for a limited audience at UCL, the platform rapidly attracted more than 25,000 unique visitors in just two days. Martell noted that the site's rapid growth was unexpected, as it started merely "as a joke."
In May 2010, UCL imposed the highest possible fine on Martell for 'damaging the university's reputation.' Despite this, he declined to remove the site; however, on 28 May 2010, increased pressure from multiple universities led to its shutdown. Martell committed to launching an enhanced version in time for the following academic year.
Floxx Media Group
Martell unveiled Floxx on 3 January 2011, initially focusing on a mobile application inspired by FitFinder but with distinct features. Early investment was secured from Dragons Den backer Doug Richard and prominent US angel investor Kevin Wall.
By mid-2011, Floxx pivoted towards mobile platforms emphasizing location-based social networking. Their app MapChat quickly achieved a top 10 ranking in app stores. Later that year in October, Martell launched Spottd, a social network centered on sharing and discovering posts based on users’ locations.
In early 2012, Floxx broadened its scope to become a digital media agency, capitalizing on its team's strengths in mobile application development, product design, and scalable web solutions.
orderswift
In March 2013, Martell introduced orderswift after encountering challenges with restaurants lacking efficient online ordering and delivery systems. Previously known as Delishery, orderswift attracted investment from Telefonica and participated in the London-based Wayra accelerator program.
Martell emphasized that many restaurants were slow to adopt technology and often failed to maximize their capacity during quieter periods. A standout feature of orderswift is its real-time order tracking capability, enabling customers to monitor precisely when their meals are prepared.
Million Dollar Intern
Martell appeared in the BBC Worldwide series Million Dollar Intern in 2013, where he showcased his entrepreneurial ventures and business philosophy.
Personal life
In 2011, Business Zone named Martell among their 'One to Watch,' and he was subsequently shortlisted for the Real Business Young Entrepreneur of the Year award.