82Labs raises $8 million to help conquer hangovers
82Labs, the company responsible for the miracle drink Morning Recovery, raised $8 million this week as the company continues to roll out products in the rest of the U.S. Officially launched in 2017, the company tapped Altos Ventures, Slow Ventures, Strong Ventures and Thunder Road Capital as investors in the round, as well as a handful of angel investors. Recently, the company launched a version 2.0, which founder Sisun Lee admitted to having "beta tested" the night before we spoke about the company's unique backstory. [TechCrunch]
Tooshlights to install smart bathroom technology at LAX
We've all been there — you're waiting to board your flight when you realize you should stop into the restroom before you depart, then realize just how long the line is for the facilities. This week, bathroom tech company Tooshlights, a hardware-software technology that shortens restroom lines and alerts janitorial staff when needed, announced that it had partnered with LAX for the company's first —wait for it — pilot program.
As a part of the deal, Tooshlights smart bathrooms will be installed in one terminal. Each unit consists of a smart latch and an indicator light that communicate wirelessly, letting users know if a stall is available. In October, the company raised $3 million after successfully beta testing its product in the place the concept was born: The Hollywood Bowl. [Press Release]
Cannabis tech company Baker Technologies expands to Los Angeles
Baker Technologies, a customer relationship management startup serving cannabis customers all over the United States, announced it would be opening a new office in Los Angeles on the heels of explosive growth. Founded in 2015, the company plans to grow its LA-based staff to serve the thousands of local retailers. Recently, the company was named as one of Built In Colorado's 50 Startups to Watch in 2018. [Baker Technologies]
Fullscreen acquires influencer marketing startup Reelio
Fullscreen, a Playa Vista-based media company that experienced one of the most successful exits for an LA-based company, announced this week it had acquired NYC-based Reelio, an influencer marketing startup that brands and advertisers targets millennials and members of Generation Z. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. [Press Release]
German transportation startup FlixBus launches in the U.S., starting in LA
FlixBus, a German startup that has risen to prominence for its simple, cost-effective way of traveling by bus, announced this week that it would be expanding operations to the U.S., with the first market being Los Angeles.
Founded in 2013, the company operates a fleet of well-maintained buses with stops all over the continent, offering travelers free WiFi, space for two pieces of luggage and real-time travel updates. The company plans to use LA as a hub to organize a network of participating cities, and also plans to hire for a number of positions in the location. [Flixbus]
