Paytm Mall, the e-commerce entity of the payments platform Paytm, has announced that it is rolling out Paytm Mall QR Code, in order to bring brick-and-mortar stores online.
This move will enable local shops to participate in the e-commerce business across the country and customers will get hyper-local service. Besides this, the Paytm Mall QR Code helps in instant product discovery via the online catalog and order products.
Similar to the QR stickers used for Paytm app, Paytm Mall QR codes will be unique for each retailer. Customers will be able to scan the code using their smartphones and get access to the store’s inventory online.
Amit Sinha, chief operating officer at Paytm Mall in a statement said:
Vast majority of commerce in our country is still conducted offline and within an ecosystem of trusted local merchants, influencers, and consumers. We look forward to help shopkeepers expand their reach and empower millions of trusted small store owners across the country. Our vision is to empower and enable trusted local sellers and become a part of mainstream ecommerce.
In the coming months, the company is also planning to launch door-step delivery from local stores. In a statement, the company said:
It will boost the business of local shops by bringing new customers who will be able to discover them on Paytm Mall and conveniently place an order. Retailers also get access to valuable customer analytics for better targeting of existing users.
While retailers get access to valuable customer analytics for better targeting of existing users, the brands can balance their offline and online channels.
Launched as an exclusive mobile app and web portal earlier this year, Paytm Mall is the revamped version of Paytm’s online retail business. It was demerged into a separate entity by the name of Paytm E-Commerce Pvt. Ltd last year.
Paytm Mall has about 68 million products listed from 140,000 sellers and a network of 17 fulfillment centers and about 40 courier partners.
Paytm, launched in August 2010 as an online recharge and bill payment platform, has expanded into online commerce and mobile payments through wallets. Paytm is currently the largest digital wallet with over 220 million users and is accepted by over 5 million offline merchants across India.
