Chaguanas 'nearby stores' app launched to boost business

THE CHAGUANAS CHAMBER OF INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE, in conjunction with local tech company Halo Technologies ltd, has launched an app to allow potential customers to find stores in the Chaguanas area.

Jovy Choonie, managing director of Halo Technologies, said the app, launched on Thursday, had been unofficially gaining traction among customers and businesses since last week.

“We worked together with all the stakeholders of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce, particularly in analysing businesses affected by covid19 and the slowdown of business.

“This app was developed to push and drive business based on location and geo-targeting of potential customers.”

The app connects customers and businesses using specific search features such as geo radius, where people can see all the stores in a general radius, product categories, a list of businesses in the area that provide these products or services, product description, store offers and more.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Trade and Industry Paula Gopee-Scoon said the launch couldn’t have come at a better time, as government continues its drive to make the country more digital.

“For this government, the way forward post-covid19 is to continue building a digital economy,” Gopee-Scoon said.

She cited programs like TT Biz Link and DevelopTT as apps which will push the country further towards that digital economy.

“TT Biz Link is a secure online interface that gives business and individuals 24/7 access to government applications, which could significantly reduce bureaucracy.

“As a government we are also very keen on the rollout of DevelopTT. As of September 1, all our applications through Town and Country Planning Division for the regions of Port of Spain, Diego Martin, San Juan/Laventille, Chaguanas, Couva Tabaquite/Talparo and parts of Tunapuna/Piarco have been mandated to be fully automated and paperless. This will eventually be expanded to all of TT.”