Fashion, beauty & wellness platform

Undeniably, technology accelerated at a dizzying speed in recent decades. Notably, rapid changes are experienced in technologies that are addressing climate change (renewable energy) and manufacturing inefficiencies (artificial intelligence and robotics).  However, for the ordinary citizens, there is one business model driven by technology that is so prevalent and dominating nowadays, the platform business model.

Admittedly, there are platforms that are household names. In fact, to some, they could hardly live without them.  Notably, in the country, Lazada and Shopee are easy recalls. They are so dominating that even in the traditional peak month of December, brick and mortar businesses aren’t enjoying pre-pandemic patronage. We can always make an excuse though. That the virus has mutated and some citizens are still avoiding crowded places.

If we pause for a while, however, we will find out that most popular platforms are dealing with goods. There is not much on services. Of course, we can always argue that G-cash and Maya are huge and very popular too. But that’s on a different category.

It is, therefore, compelling that we delve in and find some brick and mortar service businesses that can be feasibly driven by technology and can be as dominant as the other online platforms. Notably, one that should standout and was conceptualized, maybe, a century ago, and still using the same old strategies and is alive until today is the gown, suit or barong (whether wedding or cocktail) rental business. Notably, almost every city or town in the country has, at least, one rental outlet of this kind.  More often, their patrons are those who can ill-afford to buy or are just so prudent.

Some techies in the United Kingdom recognized this undertaking’s potential. London-based HURR is into preloved items. Unlike the other platforms, it is largely into fashion rental.  This time, it will be between owners of preloved items and potential users. It is a virtual peer-to-peer rental platform.  Unlike in the country where gowns are the most prevalent and can only be transacted in physical stores, HURR includes all sort of fashion items (gowns, party dresses, bags, etc.) online.

Such a good move recognizes the fact that some fashionistas cannot let go of their loved items. On the other hand, though preloved items are inexpensive, some buyers are just so prudent and will always opt for a cheaper alternative.

True enough, we are now in an era of fast fashion. And we know that there are a lot of trendsetters in our midst. Their closets and racks must be awash with garments, shoes and bags. So, instead of just letting those rats and termites feast on them or dump them in the landfill, they can lend them and recover a few pesos for their next buys.

Definitely, in the country, an online platform can help them flourish. Clearly, the upsides are immeasurable. Market-wise, they will no longer be limited to their immediate neighborhood as they can rent them out beyond their local borders. More importantly, if they become prevalent, they (both the owners and the renters) will be able to minimize waste and help the world contain climate change.

Moreover, there is another platform that is directly related with fashion that is now making waves. Named Watalook (recently funded by Venture Capitalists “Founders” and “Practica Capital”), the brand speaks for itself.  It is a beauty and wellness platform. It is based on “decentralized business software model where beauticians keep their clients’ data and personal profiles (marketplace) always with themselves, regardless of their working location.” Thus, “it gives an opportunity to create personal professionals’ identities and strong relationships with their clients.”

Using the platform’s calendar, appointments are easy to make. In fact, it can be booked anytime during the day.  It provides client history, say, frequency, revenue and even products the beauticians used. It is integrated with Facebook and Instagram. These social media giants share the beauticians’ work or availability with a click of a button. The beauticians can also list their services, showcase their best works and send new clients to their booking calendar with a simple QR code or link. More importantly, the platform sends reminders directly to the beauticians’ clients’ phones to confirm attendance or notify about any changes. So easy and efficient way of retaining customers.

Are these two platforms doable in the country? Definitely, yes. That’s a no-brainer.