Jeremy Bernier knows how to clear a blockage. As a U.S. Navy veteran and the owner of Nerd Plumbing and Drain, his career has centered on solving immediate, tangible problems. Now, the 46-year-old entrepreneur is applying that same logic to the retail industry with his new startup, MODRA.
Based in Yelm, Washington, MODRA is an on-demand marketplace designed to connect local shoppers with nearby retailers. The platform allows users to browse inventory from boutiques, malls, and national chains, providing a unified shopping experience with the promise of same-day delivery. The venture aims to bridge the gap between physical storefronts and the convenience of modern e-commerce.
From Clogged Pipes to Modern Commerce
The inspiration for the venture came from a personal frustration during a trip to Portland. Bernier found himself in need of a specific collared shirt but discovered no easy way to locate and receive the item quickly without driving across the city. This gap in the “same-day economy” led him to incorporate MODRA as a Delaware C corporation in May 2026.
Bernier describes himself as a “blue-collar guy” whose background in the Navy taught him discipline and accountability. He believes these traits are essential for navigating the high-pressure environment of a tech startup. His experience in plumbing also provided a unique perspective on customer service and operational efficiency.
According to Bernier, plumbing taught him that customers prioritize results over technical complexity. They want their problems solved reliably and their expectations met without excuses. He is now applying this philosophy to the logistical challenges of local retail delivery.
The Role of Savvy AI
At the heart of the platform is an AI-powered assistant named “Savvy,” named after Bernier’s eldest daughter. The tool is designed to move beyond simple search queries by providing a personalized shopping experience. It learns individual customer preferences, including clothing sizes, style tastes, and budget constraints, to offer tailored recommendations.
The AI does more than just find products; it aims to build consumer confidence. Bernier noted that during customer research, he found that speed was only one part of the equation. Shoppers also want to know if an item is actually available nearby and if it will truly fit their needs and style.
The technical side of MODRA is managed by a three-person founding team. While Bernier provides the vision and strategy, a founding engineer handles the backend architecture. Bernier also utilizes AI tools like ChatGPT to assist with research, strategy, and operations, allowing the small team to move at a pace typically reserved for larger organizations.
A Local Marketplace Model
MODRA is positioning itself as a comprehensive retail marketplace rather than a simple courier service. While it utilizes a network of independent contract drivers—similar to the models used by Uber Eats and DoorDash—the primary focus is on discovery and personalization. The platform provides a single interface for users to access a variety of local shopping options.
The startup enters a competitive landscape dominated by giants like Amazon, which offers 30-minute delivery for select convenience items. However, MODRA focuses on a broader range of retail goods, including fashion and specialty items from local boutiques. This focus helps smaller retailers compete in an environment where consumers increasingly demand instant gratification.
The company is currently bootstrapped, with Bernier balancing the demands of his plumbing business while building the startup. He officially committed to the project just two weeks after the initial idea struck him. This rapid transition from concept to corporation highlights the founder’s “problem-solver” mentality.
Impact on the Seattle Economy
The platform is scheduled for an official launch in the Seattle area this September. The team is currently focused on securing partnerships with local retailers and refining the logistics network. For local businesses, the platform offers a new sales channel that leverages their physical proximity to customers.
Industry experts suggest that such platforms can provide a lifeline for brick-and-mortar stores struggling against the dominance of major e-commerce platforms. By offering same-day delivery, local stores can reclaim their advantage of physical inventory and local presence. This model could potentially revitalize suburban shopping centers and local high streets.
The success of the platform will depend on its ability to scale its driver network and maintain a high level of reliability. Bernier insists that his lack of a traditional Silicon Valley background is an asset rather than a hindrance. He encourages other entrepreneurs not to wait until they feel “qualified” before pursuing a clear vision.
What to Watch Next
As the September launch approaches, observers will be looking for the first wave of retail partners to join the platform. The expansion of the driver network and the performance of the “Savvy” AI in real-world scenarios will be critical indicators of the startup’s viability. If the Seattle rollout is successful, MODRA may look to expand into other metropolitan markets.
Bernier’s transition from a service-based business owner to a technology CEO serves as a notable case study in cross-industry entrepreneurship. The startup’s ability to integrate AI with local logistics could redefine how residents in the Pacific Northwest interact with their local shopping districts. For now, the focus remains on ensuring that shopping local is as seamless as ordering dinner.
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