“We created an app to redirect purchases to city centers and local businesses, as consumer habits have changed significantly over the last 10 years and it has become increasingly easy to shop online or visit large shopping centers on the outskirts,” explains Antoine Bahri. "So the idea is to create a real advantage to shopping in the city at local businesses.”
In practical terms, the user will download Carlo, create an account, link a payment method, and then be able to use the app at their merchant.
When arriving at the checkout, they simply scan the QR code, pay, and instantly receive 5% cashback, which will be stored in a virtual wallet and locked for use in participating local businesses.
This technique increases the purchasing power of the consumer and helps the merchant retain their customers.
"We started from the observation that local merchants, often independent businesses, are used to making a commercial gesture, a discount that is often 10% for a neighborhood customer, for a loyal customer. Just like loyalty cards with 10 purchases for 1 free or discounts for students at the city's university,” explains Antoine Bahri.
With Carlo, it’s the same principle. Ten percent is retained, 5% goes back into the consumer's wallet, 2% goes to the user's referrer, and the rest covers the platform's operating costs and banking fees, which are taken care of by Carlo.
"We promote short circuits and the importance of consuming locally has significant repercussions, whether on the environment, job creation, or the establishment of vibrant community hubs in city centers. And we try, at our level, to contribute positively to this.”
The idea is also to show users that the offerings are indeed present in their city, allowing them to discover businesses and create connections with their merchants. Carlo goes further by giving visibility to these professionals and creating events to foster connections among them as well.
"So we truly present ourselves as a loyalty program that allows merchants to unite at the city level,” concludes Antoine Bahri.
