Founder Of The Week: Tevin Tobun

• Tevin Tobun is the Founder and CEO of Routd Technology, a company using AI and data intelligence to transform logistics across the UK and North America.
• With 20+ years of industry experience, he launched Routd to fix long-standing issues around inefficiency, fragmented data and lack of transparency in supply chains.
• Tobun has led Routd to partner with major FTSE 100 companies, high-street retailers and Amazon USA, proving the platform’s ability to scale.
• Alongside Routd, Tevin supports young people through The Tobun Foundation, helping those from diverse backgrounds pursue career opportunities.

Tell Me About Yourself and Routd Technology

I’m Tevin Tobun, Founder and CEO of Routd Technology. Routd is redefining global logistics through data intelligence, automation, and sustainability. We connect foodservice, healthcare, education, and FMCG sectors with transparent, AI-driven delivery systems that enhance visibility, safety, and efficiency.

In just two years, we’ve expanded across the UK and North America through partnerships with major FTSE 100 companies and high-street retailers. We also provide a 3PL service to businesses across a range of sectors including foodservice and retail. Alongside leading Routd, I’m passionate about mentoring young people through my foundation, named The Tobun Foundation, primarily to support those from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds with their career goals.

What Inspired You To Routd? What Problem Were You Trying To Solve?

After two decades in logistics, I saw first-hand how fragmented systems and manual processes created inefficiency, waste, and inequality of access. Routd was born to solve those issues by bringing intelligence and transparency to supply chains across a wide variety of sectors. We developed an AI-powered platform that unites data from warehouse to customer, enabling predictive routing, automated compliance, and sustainability tracking. Our mission is to empower organisations to operate more efficiently and responsibly, proving that logistics innovation can drive both productivity and purpose.

What Has Been Your Biggest Challenge So Far? How Did You Overcome It?

In the early days, our biggest challenge was credibility and proving that a young tech company could manage complex, high-volume logistics at scale. I drew on my experience leading GV Group, a traditional logistics provider, to ensure that Routd solved real, operational issues, not theoretical ones. We focused on delivering measurable results through improving fleet efficiency by 30%, cutting delivery waste by 25%, and achieving 100% audit compliance for clients. Every project was an opportunity to showcase our reliability and led us to gather a good reputation within the public sector and generate new clients.

Can You Describe A Pivotal Moment That Significantly Shaped the Direction of Routd?

A defining moment came when we partnered with Amazon USA to expand Routd into North America. The scale and complexity of that operation proved that our platform could deliver far more than logistics visibility, it could power intelligent inventory management and automation too.

We deployed smart vending machines and real-time stock systems across major fulfilment sites, managing critical supplies on a demanding scale. It showed that Routd’s technology extends beyond delivery to every level of supply chain control, positioning us as a true end-to-end logistics intelligence partner.

How Do You Define Success? 

As A Founder: Success is about inspiring belief in others and creating a culture where nothing feels impossible. If my journey encourages people to trust their own potential and challenge what’s expected, then I know I’ve achieved something meaningful.

As A Business: Success means staying ahead of change. In logistics, technology evolves constantly, from AI analytics to the future of self-driving fleets, and true success lies in adapting, not resisting. As Routd continues to evolve with the times and lead innovation rather than follow it, we will always remain relevant and resilient.

What Advice Would You Give To Someone Thinking About Launching Their Own Startup?

Focus on what you can do for your clients, not just what you’ve done before. Experience matters, but results matter more. Early in my career, I won a major contract against competitors with far more experience simply because I listened to the client’s real need – time. They were under pressure, so I promised to put in the extra work to meet their deadline, and I delivered. That experience taught me that success comes from understanding your client’s priorities, adapting quickly, and proving your value through action, not words.

What’s Next For Routd? Any Exciting Developments We Should Watch Out For?

Our next major innovation is the Routd AI Agent. This is launching at a time when AI safety laws are rapidly evolving in both the UK and the US. As governments introduce new standards around transparency, accountability, and responsible use of AI, our goal is to show how logistics technology can lead by example.

The AI Agent allows managers to query live operational data in natural language and receive instant, actionable insights on efficiency, cost, performance, and sustainability. In a landscape where organisations must balance innovation with compliance, this tool delivers real-time intelligence that is both powerful and responsible. It reflects Routd’s mission to shape the future of logistics through safe, transparent, human-centred AI.

Want to be featured as TechRound’s Founder of the Week? Find out more about this weekly feature and how to get involved here.

Founder’s Five with Tevin Tobun

We wanted to find out more about the man behind Routd? Here’s TechRound’s exclusive Founder’s Five with Tevin Tobun.

1. Favourite business tool?

My phone. It’s the one tool that keeps everything moving and keeps me connected with teams and partners across continents. I can use it manage operations, review data, and speak with clients.

2. One Lesson you’ve learned the hard way?

Never rely on one major client. Early in my journey, I learnt that even the strongest contracts can change overnight. Building a diverse customer base protects your business and gives you the freedom to grow on your own terms

3. A future trend you’re watching?

 The continued convergence of AI and its impact on the world. In logistics, this links directly to autonomous fleets, carbon-intelligent routing, and embedding ESG into every new technology. The companies that adapt the fastest will shape the future of how goods move.

4. One quote you live by?

“Believe in the audacity of hope.” It’s a reminder that progress starts with the courage to imagine something better… and then work relentlessly to achieve it.

5. A book/podcast you recommend?

“Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell. It’s a brilliant exploration of what drives success and how it takes much more than just talent.

Want to be featured as TechRound’s Founder of the Week? Know someone who deserves to be recognised as a founder making waves in the startup landscape? Find out more about this weekly feature and how to get involved here.