And now, an app for local retailers

After the onslaught by e-commerce sites, here comes an app which helps you to buy offline from your neighbourhood retailer.

Started for residents here, VBuy is app-based product pricing search engine for local retailers and consumers. Developed by Chennai-based VS Online Services, the app started its journey on the web before arriving at the Android platform two weeks back.

"The app provides hyperlocal (within 25-km radius) retailer price search engine solution for the consumer to compare prices and availability of electronic, home and kitchen products," says Sivakumar Anirudhan, founder and CEO of VBuy.

The company expects to expand to other cities in a few months.

Anirudhan said: "Amidst the growing tussle between retailers and e-tailers, local retailers also need online presence and this is where we step in and redefine the shopping experience.Our model is research online and buy offline."

According to Anirudhan, VBuy's marketing team identifies and verifies retailers providing them with a login to keep their prices updated.

"Going by the response we have received, we will venture out to other cities in six months and start adding other categories," Anirudhan said.

Although Vbuy has only 10 employees now, it is also planning to start its logistics service to compete with rivals like shopCity. Soon, the app will also nestle a feature that reminds the user to shop for something he had searched for when he is near the local retailer or outlet.

(Anirban Ghoshal can be contacted at anirban.g@ians.in)