Abhiraj Bhal
Abhiraj Bhal is an Indian entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of Urban Company, one of India’s leading home services platforms. His efforts have transformed the fragmented local services sector into a tech-enabled ecosystem of trusted professionals. With a vision to empower service workers and simplify access to high-quality services, Bhal has played a pivotal role in building a scalable and sustainable business model in the on-demand services space.[1]
| Abhiraj Bhal | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | IIT Kanpur (B.Tech), IIM Ahmedabad (MBA) |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur |
| Known for | Co-founder & CEO of Urban Company |
Early Life and Education
Abhiraj Bhal holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur. He later pursued an MBA from the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad. Before his entrepreneurial journey, Bhal worked as a management consultant at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he developed expertise in strategy, operations, and market expansion.[2]
Founding of Urban Company
In 2014, Bhal co-founded UrbanClap (rebranded to Urban Company in 2019) along with Varun Khaitan and Raghav Chandra. The startup aimed to solve the pain point of accessing reliable, verified service professionals for everyday needs.
Urban Company started by offering basic services like beauty, plumbing, and home repairs. Today, it spans numerous categories including spa services, AC servicing, fitness training, home cleaning, and appliance repair. The platform operates across major Indian metros and international markets such as the UAE, Singapore, and Australia.[3]
Growth and Innovations
Under Bhal's leadership, Urban Company has:
- Onboarded thousands of trained professionals.
- Built in-house skilling academies to ensure service quality.
- Introduced a subscription-based model for loyal users.
- Expanded to multiple global markets.
- Leveraged AI and data analytics to enhance customer experience.
The company also offers its partners financial services like insurance, access to tools, and training—making it one of the few gig platforms focused on service provider welfare.[4]
Challenges and Adaptation
Urban Company faced significant hurdles including:
- Consumer trust in online home services.
- Standardizing quality across a decentralized network.
- Navigating the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on in-home services.
To mitigate risks during the pandemic, Bhal introduced PPE kits, hygiene protocols, and contactless service deliveries. These measures helped rebuild consumer confidence.
Vision and Impact
Abhiraj Bhal envisions Urban Company as a global leader in tech-enabled services. He is focused on:
- Expanding international operations.
- Investing in service partner upskilling.
- Using technology to standardize quality.
- Building sustainable livelihoods for gig workers.[5]
Conclusion
Abhiraj Bhal’s journey from a consultant to a pioneer in India’s home services industry reflects his commitment to innovation and impact. With Urban Company, he has not only addressed real consumer pain points but also uplifted the lives of thousands of service professionals. His leadership continues to shape the future of India’s digital services economy.
References
- ↑ https://www.cnbctv18.com/business/urban-company-co-founder-abhiraj-bhal-tribute-ratan-tata-19490708.htm
- ↑ https://www.moneycontrol.com/technology/local-politicians-try-to-gain-mileage-from-gig-worker-protests-urban-company-ceo-abhiraj-bahl-article-12757561.html
- ↑ https://www.ibtimes.co.in/abhiraj-bhal-secures-spot-ibts-top-ceo-awards-2024-869877
- ↑ https://www.ndtvprofit.com/business/urban-company-ceo-on-worker-protests-products-business-profitability-and-more
- ↑ https://inc42.com/buzz/urban-company-profitable-before-tax-in-april-2024-ceo-abhiraj-bhal/