CIAO

As one of the early success stories in Germany’s digital startup scene, Ciao AG was the largest comparison shopping website in Europe and beyond. In 2005, Ciao AG was acquired by Greenfield Inc. Microsoft acquired the Ciao AG assets from Greenfield in 2008.

FOUNDED
1999, Munich
EXIT
Trade sale 2005
CATEGORY
Vertical Search Engine
FOUNDERS
Max Cartellieri, Verena Mohaupt, Frederick Paul

As the most comprehensive and up-to-date source of information for smart online shopping, Ciao compared products from online retailers, based on price, features, reviews and other criteria. Founded in 1999, the startup had grown from a team of two into a profitable information-services business in no time. In 2005, Ciao was employing more than 300 people with offices in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia. After the successful exit to Greenfield, co-founder and CEO Max Cartellieri moved to UK and started up with Acton investment AlphaSights.

As the most comprehensive and up-to-date source of information for smart online shopping, Ciao compared products from online retailers, based on price, features, reviews and other criteria. Founded in 1999, the startup had grown from a team of two into a profitable information-services business in no time. In 2005, Ciao was employing more than 300 people with offices in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia. After the successful exit to Greenfield, co-founder and CEO Max Cartellieri moved to UK and started up with Acton investment AlphaSights.