Demand for Authentic Dating Connections Rising, Says HER CEO

As major dating platforms like Tinder and Bumble face challenges in the post-pandemic economy, smaller, niche apps like HER are seeing significant growth. In an interview on Marketplace, HER CEO Robyn Exton argued that although mainstream platforms may offer features for various sexual orientations, they cannot replicate the community focus and cultural relevance that comes from apps focused around a handful of identities.

Despite the industry’s general downturn, HER has managed to thrive. Exton attributes this to users seeking more authentic and intimate spaces, especially as 1 in 5 Gen Z adults identifies as LGBTQ+. Unlike the larger dating platforms, HER has been able to capitalize on this demographic’s growing demand for community and connection, with a big part of that success coming from its focus on specific identities.

With attitudes towards modern dating changing in recent months, HER’s success could reflect a growing preference for niche, community-driven platforms over larger generalized dating apps. This doesn’t just apply to LGBTQ+ identities, either – many users are embracing their own quirks and labels as part of the dating experience, from simple things like hobbies to celibacy or sexual abstinence and political stances.

As Robyn stated in her interview, there is a likely chance that many mainstream dating apps lose their intimate connection as they scale. With intimacy and “mindful dating” becoming even more important parts of modern dating culture, being able to provide that closer feeling of connection could be the key to seeing long-term success.