SA tech startup launches new online marketplace for retail sector

Johannesburg-based tech startup SpaceMatch has created an online marketplace for the rental of retail, event, pop-up, and exhibition space in South Africa. 

SpaceMatch has created an online marketplace for the rental of retail, event, pop-up, and exhibition space in South Africa

The platform enables landlords to list their properties for prospective tenants to view and secure a rental for the above-mentioned purposes. 

 Kevin Singer, CEO of SpaceMatch explains that the platform functions similarly to that of Airbnb.

“Think about it as a matchmaking service for landlords and tenants that offers the convenience of Airbnb. Retail is an industry in flux and SpaceMatch is entering the market to provide a new platform for landlords to find tenants and vice versa.”

SpaceMatch

Founded in 2020, the tech startup’s innovative platform enables landlords to list their property for free and offers users access to a wide range of spaces available for rental, catering to both their needs and specific budgets.

According to the startup, landlords have control over how their space can be used and have authority over if an application by a tenant is accepted or rejected. As a one-stop-shop online marketplace for space rentals, the legal contracts, and FICA verifications are conducted online and can be reportedly completed in a few days. 

Currently, the platform has over 120 properties listed and includes property giants such as Growthpoint, Zenprop, and more. The startup aims to grow its listed portfolio to 1000 properties by the middle of this year. 

With the global pandemic and shifting trends in rental, retail markets have taken a blow and SpaceMatch has created an innovative solution to offer a financial reprieve for landlords and space owners. 

The startup has taken into account the increasing rate of entrepreneurs in South Africa and its service offers them access to a working space that can be used either for retail or as a workspace. 

SpaceMatch plans to implement more services such as photography, music, shopfitting, and design. 

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Featured image: Mike Petrucci via Unsplash