Summary:
Clients lost life savings to ConvrtX without receiving promised products.
Legal threats faced by clients who complained about service.
ConvrtX allegedly used fake testimonials to mislead potential customers.
Former employees describe a toxic work culture led by Josh Adler.
High turnover and instability reported within the company.
The Betrayal of Startup Dreams
Former clients of a Canadian tech entrepreneur, Josh Adler, are speaking out about their devastating experiences with his company, ConvrtX. Many invested their life savings into the hope of launching their startups, only to receive little to nothing in return.
The Financial Fallout
Clients from various locations, including Scotland and the southern US, reported spending up to $245,000 (£184,000) without receiving the promised websites and apps. An investigation revealed that Adler continued to request more funds while failing to deliver on existing contracts.
Allegations and Denials
In a letter to the BBC, Adler's lawyers dismissed the allegations as false, suggesting they stem from a disgruntled former client. Despite claims of a successful business, leaked documents reveal ConvrtX billed over $5 million (£3.8 million) from more than 280 customers but with very few success stories.
Disturbing Reports from Clients
- Life Savings Lost: Many clients, like Amy, a single mother from the UK, claimed they paid $53,000 (£40,000) for a basic website and never received the working app promised.
- Legal Threats: Complaints to ConvrtX often resulted in legal threats, with some clients receiving inappropriate emails from company lawyers.
- Fake Testimonials: ConvrtX was accused of using fake testimonials, including one from a client who had requested a refund.
- Misleading Claims: The company falsely stated relationships with reputable publications like Forbes and Harvard Business Review, both of which denied any association.
A Culture of Instability
Former employees described a high turnover rate and a work culture led by a young, ambitious Adler who often prioritized his luxurious lifestyle over client satisfaction. They alleged that Adler would continue to take on new clients despite knowing some projects were impossible.
Client Experiences
- DeShawn Womack, a truck driver, felt deceived after paying over $50,000 (£37,750) for a mobile app that was never delivered.
- Gemma Martin, who sought help for her tarot reading business, was threatened with legal action after she posted negative reviews online.
- Steven Marshall faced intimidation from ConvrtX when he asked for a refund after being dissatisfied with their work.
Conclusion
The stories from ConvrtX's clients underscore the potential dangers of trusting startup dreams to unproven entrepreneurs. Josh Adler's journey highlights the need for due diligence and caution in the startup ecosystem.
Additional Reporting
Additional reporting by William Dahlgreen and Tom Beal.
Comments