Online home services; medicine, food and grocery delivery services that connect local offline businesses via apps, run on the principles of hyperlocal apps. Mostly ruled by startups, the hyperlocal marketplace is gradually being seriously considered by tech industry behemoths like Google which launched its hyperlocal app Areo in 2017, for people living in some selective metro cities of India.

Indigenous startup ventures like Swiggy and Zomato are changing the way India dines. The traditional way of purchasing grocery articles is getting a convenient makeover in the way of Grofers. MedPlus, the ePharmacy service and Ola, the eCar booking service are some other important members of the list.

Key features of hyperlocal apps

1. Geo-targeting

Demographics study is an integral part of hyperlocal marketing. A data-based study like how many pro-internet users are living at a place and what is the average income of people living in that area help decide if services are to be delivered in that pin-code or not.

2. Enlisting local businesses

Local businesses are enlisted on hyperlocal apps. The best thing is when products/services are booked, both consumers and service providers can interact with each other.

3. Location tracking

Location of delivery staff can be easily tracked. Hence, it is easy to help them find your address. It is also easy to schedule your tasks accordingly and have your food in a relaxed way.

4. Open-ended communication

Both delivery staff and you can interact with each other. The communication mode is open-ended.

5. Multiple payment options

You can pay via digital wallets, cards and ‘cash on delivery’.

Benefits of hyperlocal apps

1. Meets prompt demands

Hyperlocal apps help meet prompt demands by connecting nearest available services in the most optimized manner.

2. Connects local businesses

Hyperlocal marketplaces empower local businesses by enabling them to offer services within a particular locality during their hours of operation.

3. Helps to sell varieties of products

Hyperlocal apps are bringing in a universal appeal to the products sold by local businesses. You can try in varieties of food dishes offered by local restaurants.

Why are big companies like Google entering the hyperlocal market?

In the words of Sunder Pichai, the CEO of Google, “Imagine if every single small business owner were to leverage the power of internet and information. The economy would simply boom. Google aims to give those businesses that power.”

Tech experts are of the opinion that Google had launched its hyperlocal app Areo as the prelude to its future plans. They believe that Areo will guide Google’s Digital Unlocked program.

Digital Unlocked program explained

In the wake of digitization, Digital Unlocked is a training program for SME owners where Google runs online training sessions to spread digital awareness. For example, with the help of this online course, SME owners and startups learn how to make digital payments; how do eCommerce platforms work etc.

Those who complete the program successfully will get certificates recognized by IFB and FICCI.

A vast business opportunity is lying in hibernation. You can unleash its potential with the aid of hyperlocal apps. Visit our website, write to us and get your free demo to have a thorough understanding.