Just Dial to launch online marketplace

Mumbai-based Just Dial Ltd, which runs the online business directory Justdial.com, is planning to launch an online marketplace that will enable users to purchase branded goods such as mobile phones and cameras from the participating retailers.

Just Dial will not be engaged in e-commerce directly, instead will focus on connecting its customers with local merchants and will allow consumers to browse catalogues and place orders online. Note that the company will not be involved in fulfilment of products or services, nor will it build warehouses or own any inventory.

The commercial launch of these services shall be subject to obtaining necessary approvals, the firm said in a statement.

The marketplace will also provide an opportunity for users to discover best prices of products. "Leveraging the existing ecosystem for door delivery of goods by local merchants, users could expect same-day delivery. Users will also be able to rate various vendors regarding services provided, which will provide valuable inputs to other users," the company said.

When contacted by Techcirlce.in, a company spokesperson said he cannot share more details now. "The new services will be unveiled by our brand ambassador Amitabh Bachchan on December 7."

Last month, Just Dial had said that it would build an online transaction platform focused on services, in addition to search and discovery of service providers. The company, which is already offering transaction-based services on its platform with online food ordering, would also launch a comprehensive price discovery engine. For businesses, this online platform will provide an opportunity to get discovered and open up an additional channel of distribution.

For the quarter ended September 30 this year, Just Dial had reported a 98 per cent growth in net profit, boosted by a 23 per cent growth in paid listing. During the quarter, the company launched or made progress in building products focused on restaurant food order & table reservation, wine order, movie/event ticketing, cab booking, doctor's appointment, grocery order and flower delivery order.