You needed to run into the store just to grab a few things that weren’t on the list yesterday and are trying everything to avoid a long line at the register, right? With near-field communication technology coming up very quickly, more mobile apps are popping up that are helping customers pay for things without even visiting the checkout, or at least spending a lot less time at the checkout. A new mobile app called Pago has been launched and the idea is that you, as a customer, can skip in-store lines altogether.
The app is available for iOS, Android and BlackBerry phones and right now the company has partnered with over 50 establishments in the Mountain View area, with the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, as well. Leo Rocco, the company founder and CEO, said, “Pago is a lifestyle approach to commerce, inspired by the inefficiencies in daily transactions for both consumers and businesses. From buying a morning coffee to picking up dry cleaning, we knew that commerce could be easier and more personalized.” Once you have the app downloaded a consumer can search for coffee shops, eateries, dry cleaners and other companies that accept Pago as a payment option. Once you are in the store you can then attend to your business and pay your bill with the app.
The company, based in San Francisco has not mentioned how much funding they have raised as a startup, but they have gotten the go ahead from the Mountain View Chamber of Commerce with help getting more partners onboard in the city. By the end of the year, the city is hoping to have over 75 percent of their merchants on the Pago system. Other features of the app include the ability to leave a review, and post your recommendations on social sites like Facebook and Twitter. There is also a “gift giving” option if you choose to send something to a friend of yours through the app.
The businesses that are participating will also get access to data and customer information through their existing point of sale network. Other benefits to the businesses include sending promotions and discounts to users of the network and even a system included for rewarding the more loyal customers. This app sounds like a great idea and the new company looks to have plenty of support. Keep an eye out for the Pago logo in your area as this idea takes off.
