Appetiser
About the Company
Appetiser, founded in 2016 in Melbourne, Australia, focuses on turning ideas into functional tech products. Their services include iOS, Android, and web app development, as well as app design. The agency's client list features prominent names like Pointsbet, Youfoodz, and Grill’d, with many achieving remarkable success. Recognized by TechCrunch, Appetiser emphasizes quality, user experience, and efficient market delivery.
With offices in multiple cities and a global remote work culture, Appetiser supports a wide array of businesses. The team has successfully helped several clients secure millions in funding and even go public. By focusing on their clients' growth, Appetiser positions itself as a leader in the competitive app development space.
Idea Behind Company
Jamie Shostak and Michael MacRae connected over a shared passion for building tech products. They identified gaps in the app development industry, including slow market entry and inconsistent quality. Their goal was to create a company that combined speed, data-driven decisions, and top-tier quality to help startups succeed.
The founders tested their ideas through early sales outreach and found validation in their approach. They sought to empower entrepreneurs by offering flexible contracts and focusing on creating minimum viable products that reduced costs while maintaining quality. These principles became the foundation for Appetiser’s mission and services.
Creating the Company
The company initially faced challenges, such as high development costs and securing predictable growth systems. To address these, Appetiser began offering a design phase with interactive prototypes, allowing clients to scope projects visually. Breaking down contracts into milestones made their services accessible to more startups.
Appetiser’s process supports entrepreneurs in raising capital, gaining stakeholder buy-in, and validating ideas. By prioritizing cost efficiency and market-readiness, they have helped countless businesses bring their visions to life. Continuous improvement and client success remain central to their operations.
Launching the Business
Appetiser began with a lean approach, using online directories, outbound marketing, and a simple website to attract initial clients. Their early strategies brought them their first clients but highlighted the need for a sustainable growth model. A tough initial year led to the development of a robust inbound sales system.
Investments in tools like CRM, marketing automation, and tailored sales strategies transformed the business. By consistently iterating on their model, Appetiser created a scalable system that allowed them to expand globally. Today, the company helps hundreds of startups annually and maintains a strong reputation.
Earnings
Appetiser generates approximately $8.4M in annual revenue, employing nearly 200 people across multiple locations. Their services have enabled clients to achieve significant milestones, including public listings and large user bases. The company reinvests in its operations and continues to refine its processes.
By leveraging client success stories and focusing on market gaps, Appetiser has built a robust identity as a leader in app development. With plans to expand further, particularly into the US market, the company aims to solidify its global presence and continue fostering startup success.
