WeTransfer


WeTransfer is an internet-based computer file transfer service based in the Netherlands. The company was founded in Amsterdam by Rinke Visser, Bas Beerens and Nalden. In October 2018, WeTransfer relaunched its app with the name "Collect by WeTransfer". In May, 2020 India banned the WeTransfer app, citing security reasons.

History

Early development and launch

WeTransfer was founded in 2009 and evolved from Beerens's frustration at not being able to share large files easily. WeTransfer had to be 'simple enough for your parents to use'. Nalden, who ran the blog Nalden.net, was approached by Beerens and added the idea of full-screen background imagery. WeTransfer was later turned into a stand-alone business.

2010–2012

In 2012, WeTransfer implemented a re-design and introduced its premium 'Pro' service, supporting transfers of larger files, and storage, an address book, and the ability to protect files with a password.

2013–2015

Self-funded from its launch in 2009, WeTransfer reached profitability in 2013. In 2014, WeTransfer launched creativeclass.tv, an ongoing video series. WeTransfer initiated its first bursaries that year, through a collaborative partnership with Central Saint Martins. These bursaries supported two students from around the globe in their full-time studies.
In 2015, WeTransfer raised a US$25 million Series A funding round from Highland Capital Partners Europe, and added venture capitalist Troy Carter to its board.

2016–present

In 2016, WeTransfer announced the acquisition of digital design studio Present Plus, established in 2010 by Damian Bradfield and WeTransfer co-founder Nalden, whose clients included Adidas, MR PORTER, British Airways, Sonos and Christie’s.
In September 2016 WeTransfer opened their first office in the United States, in Venice Beach, Los Angeles. In early 2017, Gordon Willoughby became the company's Chief Executive Officer, taking over from Bas Beerens, who became Executive Chairman.
In August 2018, WeTransfer acquired app developer FiftyThree, whose portfolio included sketching app Paper and collaborative presentation app Paste.
In August 2019, the company closed a €35 million secondary funding round led by HPE Growth.
In June 2020, the company became a certified B Corporation.

Leadership

Bas Beerens founded the file-sharing platform WeTransfer with Nalden and Rinke Visser in 2009.
Beerens also runs the design consultancy OY Communications, from which WeTransfer was developed, initially as OY Transfer. In 2012, he founded WeMarket, a global B2B marketplace for buyers and suppliers in any industry.

Technology

WeTransfer is based on Amazon's infrastructure and technology. It uses Amazon S3 for storage and for sending files.

Services

WeTransfer offers a free service where users can send up to two gigabytes of files, and a paid option, called WeTransfer Plus where users can send up to 20 gigabytes of files. WeTransfer Plus also allows users to add passwords to files.

Revenue model

WeTransfer has a dual revenue model; split between advertising and premium subscriptions. With a free account, users can send files of up to 2 GB. With a premium account 20 GB files can be transferred, 1 TB stored, and password and personalization options.
WeTransfer displays full-screen advertisements while transferring, instead of banner ads.