SafeSell

The social problem we intend to address is the harm (potential, perceived, or actual) that people experience when meeting with a stranger in order to exchange items purchased in online consumer-to-consumer (C2C) marketplaces. As transactions typically take place between parties who have not previously met, tension and anxiety can run high when actually meeting face to face. These interactions can, and have, led to robberies and even homicides. As adoption of transacting in redistribution markets such as these continues to increase, the overall number of potential risk-filled interactions increases. There are minimal rules or restrictions within these marketplaces regarding safety, and even fewer that are enforced.

With SafeSell, we plan to redefine the options available for the physical exchange of items purchased in online consumer-to-consumer (C2C) marketplaces. Our service will leverage an existing technology to create a unique solution for a rapidly growing and highly-engaged niche market. We will offer secure access to conveniently scheduled, electronically-monitored lockboxes, thereby eliminating the need for face-to-face meetings. With no competitor, local or otherwise, we will be the only item exchange option that allows you to avoid a potentially dangerous situation, while also providing security of the item and convenience. We will do this with strategically placed locker units with various sized lockers available for 6 or 12 hour rentals.

As owners of an online resale business, we have had uneasy feelings while meeting up with strangers to exchange items we have sold online. We are the right team because of Jessica’s background in online and in-store vintage item sales and strategic procurement. We are the right team because of my background in hospitality management and my MBA. We know the customers. We understand their problem. We came up with a breakthrough idea. We know how to position our unique solution to benefit customers and the community on the whole while making a profit. What motivates us is the possibility of redefining the manner in which $20 billion of domestic sales are conducted.