The 'NearSt' Start-Up Offers Delivery of Books from Local Bookstores
Hayley McGlone — July 21, 2016 — Tech
London-based startup NearSt is trying to increase the amount of consumers purchasing books from local bookstores rather than large chain stores. The book delivery platform has almost 40 bookstores signed up to utilize the platform's services and over 100,000 products for consumers to select from.
Users can search for their book and enter their postal code to see its availability in their area. If the book is available, users can select either immediate pickup or opt to have the book delivered within an hour from the shop. NearSt uses scooter and bike services to deliver books. NearSt makes it easy for bookstore owners to integrate the delivery platform with their preexisting systems and the book delivery platform takes six percent of the final sales price of each product. NearSt is aiming to compete with online retailer giants by supporting local book shops.
Users can search for their book and enter their postal code to see its availability in their area. If the book is available, users can select either immediate pickup or opt to have the book delivered within an hour from the shop. NearSt uses scooter and bike services to deliver books. NearSt makes it easy for bookstore owners to integrate the delivery platform with their preexisting systems and the book delivery platform takes six percent of the final sales price of each product. NearSt is aiming to compete with online retailer giants by supporting local book shops.
Trend Themes
1. Local Commerce - The rise of NearSt reflects a trend towards supporting local businesses and encouraging local commerce through innovative delivery platforms.
2. On-demand Delivery - NearSt's book delivery platform taps into the growing trend of on-demand delivery services, providing a convenient and efficient way for consumers to receive their purchases.
3. Integration Solutions - NearSt's focus on seamless integration with existing bookstore systems highlights a trend towards integrated solutions that enhance business operations and customer experiences.
Industry Implications
1. E-commerce - The book delivery platform industry within the e-commerce sector is experiencing disruption as startups like NearSt offer alternative ways for consumers to purchase and receive products.
2. Local Retail - NearSt's services present an opportunity for local retail businesses, particularly bookstores, to compete with online retail giants by leveraging innovative delivery solutions.
3. Last-mile Delivery - NearSt's utilization of scooter and bike services for book deliveries showcases the potential disruption in the last-mile delivery industry, where efficient and eco-friendly solutions are in high demand.
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