Disruptors are individuals, companies, or technologies that significantly change the way industries operate. They introduce innovative ideas or products that challenge traditional methods, often leading to the decline of established businesses. For example, Uber transformed the taxi industry by allowing people to book rides through a smartphone app, making transportation more convenient and accessible.
These changes can create new markets and opportunities, but they can also cause uncertainty for existing players. Netflix is another example of a disruptor, as it shifted how people consume media, moving from physical rentals to streaming services. This shift forced traditional video rental stores to adapt or close down.