Goodbox, a start-up based in Bangalore, raised a $2.5 million Series A from Nexus Venture Partners. This company allows small and medium businesses such as supermarkets, restaurants, and service providers like movers, salons, and laundry chains to use its partner app for their ecommerce requirements. Goodbox charges each vendor $16 annually, and a 1.99 percent transaction fee for each payment. Chief executive officer Abey Zachariah explained, “We see ourselves as enablers for offline retailers that don’t have an online presence, so they can build an app presence without burning a hole their pocket.”
Consumers use the main Goodbox app to find nearby businesses and make cash-on-delivery or debit and credit card payments. Additionally the app has a chat feature that enables customers to call businesses and ask questions about products or make requests like extra toppings on food.
“There’s no learning curve. It’s asynchronous. We can allow for businesses to customize their chats, such as adding a checklist or menu,” says Mayank Bidawatka, co-founder of the company.