IOSP vs REAL Comparison

Innospec Inc manufactures and sells a variety of chemicals and fuel additives. The firm organizes itself into three segments based on product type. The Fuel Specialties segment, which generates the majority of revenue, sells products used to improve fuel efficiency, boost engine performance, and reduce emissions for automobiles, boats, and airplanes. It also sells products used by oil field service providers in the extraction of oil and gas. The Performance Chemicals segment sells products to the personal-care industry. The Oilfield Services segment develops and markets products to prevent loss of mud.

The RealReal is the largest pure-play luxury resale platform in the US, generating $1.8 billion in 2024 gross merchandise volume and addressing a niche (personal luxury resale) that had previously been serviced by inefficient upscale boutiques and local pawn shops. The company generates revenue via consignment and first-party sales on its online marketplace, and through a small volume of direct sales. With a hands-on approach that actively sources inventory and authenticates every item on its platform, The RealReal is able to justify much higher take rates than peers, working out to roughly 36% of net merchandise value in 2024, which excludes returns, cancellations, and first-party sales.