This week, Salesforce startled the tech community with its announcement of Salesforce+, a forthcoming video streaming service aimed at office workers. While the content on Salesforce+ is expected to primarily promote the company’s products rather than vie for prestigious awards, this move signals a significant expansion for Salesforce.

Potential Nightmare Scenarios for Salesforce

As Salesforce pursues its ambitious goal of reaching $50 billion in revenue by 2025 and ventures into new markets through acquisitions like Slack, it must be prepared to navigate unforeseen challenges. Let’s explore three potential nightmare scenarios that could disrupt Salesforce’s business trajectory.

1. GoPuff’s Labor Disputes

GoPuff, a delivery startup specializing in convenience store items, recently faced backlash after raising $1 billion in funding and subsequently reducing hourly pay for its workers. This move has sparked discussions of potential work stoppages and employee advocacy efforts, highlighting the precarious nature of labor relations in the gig economy.

2. Divergent Investor Strategies: Venture Capital vs. Hedge Funds

The recent funding round for Superhuman, an email provider, showcased the differing approaches of venture capital firms and hedge funds to startup investments. With Silicon Valley VC firm IVP and New York hedge fund Tiger Global both participating in the $75 million funding round, the divergent timelines and decision-making processes underscore the complexities of securing investment in the tech industry.

3. The Space Race Among Tech Billionaires

Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Richard Branson are engaged in a high-stakes competition to dominate the burgeoning space tourism industry. While Musk’s SpaceX aims for literal liftoffs with its launch site in Texas and themed job postings, the trio’s rivalry risks overshadowing concerns about the environmental impact of space tourism, as highlighted in a recent UN report. Additionally, mysterious occurrences on Mars, such as the disappearance of Martian soil samples collected by NASA’s Perseverance rover, add an element of uncertainty to the space exploration narrative.

Conclusion

As Salesforce embarks on new ventures and confronts evolving industry dynamics, it must remain vigilant against potential pitfalls that could derail its growth trajectory. By addressing labor concerns, navigating investor landscapes, and staying attuned to broader societal and environmental implications, Salesforce can mitigate the risks associated with its expansion efforts.