Bus-hailing startup Plentywaka has launched a new business-to-consumer delivery service, Logistics By Plentywaka (LBP), an expansion of the company’s bus transportation network in Nigeria.
The Lagos-based service removes the stressful task of transporting packages across the busy city, providing customers with same-day service and a range of logistical vehicles from cooling vans, trucks, and bikes, which can be easily selected depending on the requirements, the company said Monday.
Informal businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises, and large organizations will also benefit from the ease and speed of the service, which can be accessed via a mobile application, ensuring continuity of business during this disruptive time, Plentywaka said.
The new service is in response to the city-wide lockdown and restriction of movement as part of efforts to curb the spread of the nationwide coronavirus outbreak. “The effects of COVID-19 are being felt everywhere,” Plentywaka co-founder, Johnny Enagwolor said.
“In the midst of all of this (the pandemic), companies like ours have had to look at how we can continue to innovate and support both businesses, and people who need access to goods, by leveraging innovative technology to streamline the processes,” said Enagwolor, who also serves as managing director.
Plentywaka has worked with a number of partners and many of its own drivers to build out the infrastructure required to deliver a “cost-effective and efficient” logistics service, the MD said. The company is also “opening up new opportunities to those who have lost their regular source of income since COVID-19.”
Logistics by Plentywaka is now looking for trusted partners and vehicle owners who will have the flexibility to earn money on their own schedule from an existing customer base of over 40,000 individuals and access to the technology infrastructure. Customers using the app, available on Google Playstore and IOS App store, will choose a vehicle type closest to the pick-up location, with real-time delivery tracking and support.
Launched in 2019, Plentywaka has seen substantial growth since the beginning of this year, reaching a milestone of 100,000 rides in March after just 6 months on the road. The company also recently launched a Staff Bus Solutions for companies to commute employees to minimize the risk of exposure to the coronavirus and expanded so riders can enjoy a journey from Ikeja to Victoria Island.
