The stakes are higher with accelerated technological
adoption triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. To this end, QShop, a
technology-driven e-commerce platform founded in 2020, is on a mission to help
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) succeed in a technologically driven world.
SMEs are referred to as the “backbone of the economy” or
“engine of growth for development”. These titles were conferred due to their
significant role in alleviating poverty, facilitating local and international
trade and creating job opportunities. By providing an affordable e-commerce
solution through QShop, SMEs in emerging markets can enhance their ability to
achieve business objectives and improve contributions to economic growth,
through technology.
By simplifying Africa’s e-commerce ecosystem and website
setup, many entrepreneurs who would otherwise struggle with the complexity of
running a business online can do so with a few clicks. QShop equips SMEs with
the tools and resources crucial to successfully running an e-commerce business.
QShop’s integration with financial partners like Stripe,
Flutterwave, Paystack and recently Providus Bank gives merchants the freedom to
receive funds seamlessly and in any currency.
QShop’s recent partnership with Providus Bank has reduced
payment processing time, allowing businesses to receive store credit for
transactions in as little as one hour.
Additionally, QShop supports technology integration with
Facebook Pixel, Instagram, and Google Analytics. This allows merchants to set
up their stores in minutes, improve consumer engagement and measure growth.
Since the launch of QShop, there has been significant
traction amongst merchants. Over 10,000 SMEs have signed up, and USD500,000 has
been processed in combined merchants sales.
Speaking at a media briefing Tarebi Alebiosu, Founder,
QShop, said: “During the pandemic, we found that technology was one of the
major factors that helped many small businesses survive. However, many
struggled to navigate the complexity of integrating technology into their
businesses’ day-to-day running.”
“Therefore, we developed QShop, a mobile-first solution, in
late 2020 to make e-commerce technology adoption for small businesses
affordable. Simply put, we are helping small businesses to sell online and
scale easily. QShop is deeply integrated with social media allowing for a
seamless and easy setup; most stores are up and running in two minutes or
less.”
Also commenting, Harrison Hammond, Head of Technology,
QShop, said: “At QShop, we want to help customers grow from zero to a hundred
with technology. We serve as the middle man to bring all the tools- websites,
inventory, payment channels, logistics -to one place. SMEs currently inundated
with the complexity of technological integrations can start with QShop.”
QShop’s long term growth plan is underpinned by a focus on
boosting growth for retail-focused businesses. Hence, merchants can expect
platform upgrades that include access to credit, markets, and business
training.