Not too long after Facebook announced an investment in Reliance Jio, customers in regions of Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Kalyan can now order groceries using WhatsApp and JioMart. To initiate, WhatsApp users have to text “Hi” on +91-8850008000. Users will then get a web link for JioMart, allowing them to browse through the catalogue and place an order.
JioMart effectively brings together Reliance Retail and Reliance Jio to create an online grocery shopping portal with a focus on Kirana merchants around the country. Reliance Jio mentions that it will maintain strict safety standards while also ensuring 24x7 operations to meet the consumers’ needs.
Given that this is currently a pilot project, not many users around the country can access it. However, a nationwide expansion can be planned based on the success of this program. The aforementioned phone number is a designated WhatsApp Business account and is an amalgamation of Jio’s recent partnership with Facebook.
Speaking to TechCrunch, Ajit Mohan, one of the Facebook VPs who also oversees the Indian operations, said that the two companies are currently looking for ways to collaborate on this front, and even pitched the possibility of customers locating nearby stores and placing orders within WhatsApp. He added that users may not be required to complete their payments within the app.
WhatsApp’s payments service has been under development for a couple of years now but is yet to go mainstream. Perhaps this could finally be the cue to roll-out its secure payments system more widely to accommodate retail shopping via the app.
The timing of the launch of this service is very apt. Reason being, in the lockdown, when people are struggling to get their daily groceries and essentials, this can be handy. While one can know for sure where to get their daily needs, the biggest disadvantage right now is that there is no home delivery option available.
Also Read - Reliance Industries And Facebook May Join Forces For A Comprehensive App
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