La passion d'entreprendre | Steve Rosenblum | TEDxTélécom SudParis

()

Steve's Journey in Business

Steve returned to Montreal after 6 years to take over his father's photography business.
He spent 9 months learning from his father and modernizing the company by digitizing processes.
In 2000, Steve convinced his father and uncle to give him 3 months to match a 30 million euro offer for the company.
Despite limited qualifications, Steve raised funds from a venture capital fund and banks, learning about shareholder agreements and leveraged buyouts.
The signing ceremony took place, but just 3 days later, the investment fund backed out of the deal.
Despite setbacks, Steve secured funding and closed a deal in December 2021.

Steve started Pixmania, an online photo development company that expanded into selling various products.
Pixmania experienced rapid growth, reaching €1 billion in revenue within a few years.
In 2006, due to rapid growth and debt obligations, Steve decided to sell Pixmania through an auction, resulting in a €354 million deal.

After selling Pixmania, Steve diversified investments by creating a small investment fund with friends.
Pixmania experienced a downfall in 2012 due to a partnership with Dixons.
Steve and his team started a new venture called The Kase, facing challenges due to a fraudulent partner.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, they acquired over 120 stores and ventured into phone recycling.
In 2020, they reacquired the Pixmania brand and relaunched it as a marketplace with innovative distribution models.

lia is a company that converts long marketing PDFs into short videos using AI-assisted humans.
The company is expected to generate €120 million in revenue this year.
lia pivoted from blockchain to the regulated world of financial institutions due to the complexity and time-consuming nature of blockchain technology.
The company aims to make AI industrializable in the next 18-24 months.

Steve believes that this is the best time to be alive due to technological advancements.
He emphasizes the importance of human relationships, team building, and passion in achieving success.
Steve encourages individuals to pursue their passions and not accept unacceptable situations in the workplace.