Our Mission is to Make Your Supply Chain a Competitive Advantage: Sean Henry, CEO of Stord

Stord is the leading commerce enablement platform that powers seamless checkout and delivery experiences for brands across all channels. It partners with hundreds of brands to grow revenue, reduce operational expenses, and delight shoppers. The company manages over $5B of commerce annually.

In a recent interview with SME Business Review, Sean Henry, co-founder and CEO of Stord, discussed the innovative strategies and vision driving Stord’s mission to transform supply chains into powerful growth engines for brands. Here’s what Mr. Henry had to say.

Interview Excerpts

Stord has emerged as a leader in commerce enablement. What inspired you to start this journey?

I have always been fascinated by how businesses operate behind the scenes, particularly the complexities of supply chains. Before founding Stord, I noticed how many brands struggled with logistics and fulfillment. The lack of integration between systems made it hard for businesses to grow efficiently. My co-founder and I wanted to solve that problem by creating a platform that simplifies logistics and transforms it into a growth enabler. We set out to build a solution that brings together technology, operations, and scalability to help brands succeed.

Managing over $5 billion in commerce annually is an impressive milestone. How does Stord achieve such scale while maintaining efficiency?

Scale is only sustainable when it’s paired with precision. At Stord, we focus on creating systems that prioritize reliability and efficiency at every level. Our platform integrates best-in-class omnichannel fulfillment with cutting-edge technology to handle large volumes while ensuring fast and accurate deliveries. The key is staying agile, continuously innovating, and keeping the needs of our partners at the forefront.

Stord’s solutions enable brands to increase cart conversion and improve unit economics. How do you approach designing a system that impacts these crucial metrics?

We approach this by putting the customer experience at the center of every decision. When shoppers face frictionless checkouts and dependable delivery options, conversion rates naturally improve. At the same time, we focus on optimizing costs across the supply chain to ensure better unit economics. By combining operational excellence with actionable insights, we give brands the tools they need to enhance their bottom line without sacrificing customer satisfaction.

Stord is trusted by brands like AG1, Native, Tula, and American Giant. How do you foster these strong partnerships?

Trust is built on results. When brands see measurable improvements in their operations, it builds confidence in our ability to deliver. We work closely with our partners to understand their unique challenges and craft solutions tailored to their goals. Transparency, communication, and delivering consistent value are at the heart of how we maintain these relationships.

What role has Atlanta played in shaping Stord’s success?

Atlanta has been an incredible base for Stord. The city’s thriving logistics and technology ecosystem has provided access to top talent and resources. Being in Atlanta has also allowed us to connect with a diverse range of businesses, which has enriched our understanding of the market. The community here is vibrant and supportive, making it a perfect environment for growth and innovation.

Stord has managed centers across North America and Europe. How do you ensure seamless operations across such a broad network?

Running a global operation requires a balance of standardization and adaptability. We have built robust systems and processes that ensure consistency while allowing for flexibility to meet local demands. Advanced technology plays a critical role in monitoring and optimizing performance across our network, ensuring we maintain high standards no matter where the operation is located.

How has support from leading investors like Kleiner Perkins and Salesforce Ventures shaped Stord’s innovation and growth strategy? 

The support from our investors has been instrumental in fueling innovation and expanding our capabilities. It’s not just about the funding—it’s about the strategic guidance and expertise they bring to the table. This backing allows us to continuously evolve our platform, stay ahead of market trends, and deliver even greater value to the brands we serve.

Your journey as an entrepreneur must come with its challenges. What have been some key lessons along the way?

One of the biggest lessons has been the importance of resilience and adaptability. Building Stord has been a journey of constant learning. We’ve faced hurdles, from navigating market shifts to scaling operations, but each challenge has taught us something valuable. Surrounding ourselves with a great team and staying focused on our mission has been crucial to overcoming obstacles.

How do you see the future of commerce enablement, and what role will Stord play in it?

Commerce is evolving rapidly, and businesses need to adapt to stay competitive. At Stord, we aim to be the partner brands can rely on to navigate this change. Whether it’s through advancements in technology, expanded fulfillment capabilities, or deeper integration across channels, we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve. Our goal is to empower businesses to thrive, no matter how the market evolves.

Outside of work, what drives you personally?

I am passionate about problem-solving and creating meaningful impact, whether it’s in business or beyond. I also value spending time with family and exploring new ideas that challenge the status quo. Entrepreneurship is more than a career for me—it’s a way of thinking and approaching life.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to disrupt an industry?

Start by understanding the problem you want to solve deeply. Build a solution that addresses real pain points, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, and always keep your focus on delivering value. Most importantly, stay patient and persistent—success rarely comes overnight.

Sean Henry, Co-Founder & CEO, Stord

Running a global operation requires a balance of standardization and adaptability. We have built robust systems and processes that ensure consistency while allowing for flexibility to meet local demands.