Startup Fortune, June 18, 2020: Known as the GIF King, Francesco Riviera is a digital entrepreneur and marketer extraordinaire. The nickname stuck when Riviera became the first person to launch personalized GIFs for Instagram on the European market. These were soon commissioned by international companies and celebrities who recognized them as effective branding opportunities. Riviera’s company then pioneered dropshipping which now generates a 6 figure monthly turnover. Next Riviera plans to coach others about how to dropship from scratch through Drop Evolution, an online video course.
Hi Francesco. Tell us about yourself.
I’m 25, born and raised in Italy. I graduated in accountancy but decided to pursue my passion for the digital world with Tesoro Communication.
Tell us about Tesoro Communication?
I’ve always believed in the value of content, so at 20, I opened Tesoro Communication, a marketing agency specializing in content creation.
Our company grew quickly and today, we offer 360-degree project management – from brand identity to complete marketing campaign launches.
When did you know you found the right idea and how did you capitalize on it?
I realized that marketing was my passion, I decided to do it my own way. I financed myself by offering marketing services and reinvested every single penny earned back into the business.
Why did you choose this industry?
I’m attracted by the immense potential of online marketing and the idea of being able to do business around the world from your computer and without existing ties.
What makes you unique?
My motivation for achieving my goals. Until the result arrives, I never give up because I believe a winning strategy exists.
What’s your secret to scaling a business?
I have very high goals. I break the final goal into small steps and find how to achieve each one. Celebrate achieving each goal so that you’re motivated to do more.
What was your biggest success?
Developing my personal brand online without fear. I believe this led to me becoming the GIF King.
The response when I launched the Instagram GIFs was so tremendous, I understood at that moment the potential of personal branding.
What are you working on right now and what are your plans for the future?
I want to become a digital coach teaching others how to do business online using dropshipping.
I will continue to be the personification of my companies, representing them, and generating value for my followers.
