Will Web3 enable fair local-for-local platforms? Maybe…

A reaction on Twitter about Gorillas’ ultra-fast grocery delivery was food for thought. “Flash delivery can also be done via the traditional way; ask the neighbors (via the neighborhood app). As recently done with success. I had forgotten to buy mushrooms. Within 7 minutes on the doorstep. Coronaproof with a smile”.

The power of global platforms

The rise of platforms like Amazon, Home Delivery, Uber, Zalando, Metaverse, Booking, Bolt, and Airbnb is not surprising. They offer many products and services, ultra-fast and with great convenience for the customer. As a result, the power of the global platforms is increasing. Smaller, local players are only allowed to play along according to the rules of the big platforms; winner-takes-all! Can’t we do a better and fairer job together by arranging it ourselves?

With the rise of ultra-fast delivery companies, I recently wondered if local retailers can still win. Can local companies solve this together? Bundle their offerings, create an ordering and payment platform and make joint agreements with local delivery networks on fast delivery. This also applies to local cab companies, restaurants, private car-sharing, and other service providers.

Why not create local platforms for local users. What does a cab company in Amsterdam gain from rides requested in Hong Kong? What does a hungry consumer in Luxemburg win from promotions by sushi restaurants in San Francisco?