SPAZA SHOPS can save a little more, thanks to an app.
Local Durban-based tech company, Spazapp, has an app that connects users directly to bulk-buying opportunities.
Spazapp is a free Android app that can be downloaded for free from Google Play.
It’s already popular in KZN. The app closes wasted opportunities that force people to pay more.
“Our mission is to uplift thousands of traders by empowering informal businesses with free trading technology,” said Spazapp CEO, Tim Strang.
“We’ve found a solution to a real problem with the app. Informal traders can now lower the cost of essential groceries sold by placing orders, directly from large suppliers, without having to shut down their store, pay for transport, or miss out on bulk-buying savings because of cashflow constraints – and the service is for free!”
In order to access this convenient and cashless buying of stock, traders need only register on the app with their cellphones and make an ATM deposit or EFT to an automatically created ewallet in order to buy and receive goods.
The app also allows for the selling of airtime, data and life insurance policies, and ends the expense of hiring equipment to print vouchers and invoices.
“Our users tell us free delivery alone saves them between R200 and R800 a month,” said Spazapp chief technology officer, Byron Verreyne.
The team started on the project in June 2014 and based on the success of the pilot, the company has been able to attract partners like Unilever,
Tiger and others.
Recently, Spazapp partnered with the eThekweni Municipality to encourage small businesses in the city by introducing the app to local traders. This connected them in a sustainable way so they save money, increase profits and be competitive. “The app boosts commerce, job creation and profitability,” said Jason Bygate, CEO of Engage.
