Circle Secures $6M to Lead Quick Commerce in MENA
Deal News | May 20, 2025 | Zawya
Circle, a Kuwaiti quick commerce startup, has raised $6 million in Series A funding from a group of strategic investors. Established in 2020, Circle has rapidly transformed the retail experience with its tech-driven quick commerce model, achieving significant revenue growth by focusing on hyperlocal speed and customer convenience through the deployment of dark stores. The company's innovative last-mile delivery systems feature efficient warehousing and real-time inventory management. With the new funding, Circle plans to expand beyond Kuwait into key regional markets by 2026, aiming to harness the $100 billion potential of the quick commerce sector in the MENA region. Circle's CEO, Altaf AlThekair, underscores the firm's commitment to combining speed, convenience, and reliability, setting Circle on a path to lead in retail innovation.
Sectors
- Quick Commerce
- Retail Technology
Geography
- Kuwait – Circle is based in Kuwait and has experienced significant growth in this market since its foundation.
- MENA Region – Circle is targeting expansion across the Middle East and North Africa region by 2026, aligning with its growth strategy.
Industry
- Quick Commerce – This industry focuses on ultra-fast delivery services, often under 20 minutes, utilizing tech-enabled logistics and infrastructure.
- Retail Technology – Combines retail processes with advanced technology to improve delivery speed and customer convenience, as demonstrated by Circle's operations.
Financials
- $6 million – Series A funding secured by Circle for expansion and growth in the quick commerce industry.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circle | Target company | Company | A fast-growing quick commerce startup founded in Kuwait, focusing on hyperlocal delivery services and tech-driven operations. |
| Strategic Investors | Investors | Company | A consortium providing Series A funding to Circle, enabling its expansion ambitions. |
| Altaf AlThekair | CEO | Person | CEO of Circle leading the company's vision and growth strategy. |