Are you intending it to be a profitable business?
Of course we would like to be a profitable business but not at the expense of the people who need this kind of service most. We will build toward being a profitable business.
There are many different avenues that we can pursue to build profitability. We have invested a significant amount of money in our business, because we are passionate about building a more sustainable economy, environment and community.
We are currently developing multiple streams of income from different areas other than fee collection from users which will allow more people to use the site for free.
What has the response been so far?
The response has been amazing. We have travelled from the top of the North Island to the bottom, talking to Kiwis and they all have been saying: "What a great Idea." We know that it will take a while for people to understand the concept of our website, but once people do, it will create a whole new way of thinking.
What kinds of things are you seeing swapped and exchanged?
We are seeing all sorts of things going on, from household furniture being exchanged for gardening work, to boats being exchanged for Harley Davidsons. I can't wait until we have our first house exchange. There are lots of cars and household items being listed, and there are also people putting wanted to put listings up for things they are looking for.
How big could this get?
Enormous. There is a huge movement at the moment called Collaborative Consumption. This is where people are looking at swapping, bartering, or renting instead of ownership, as the cost for ownership is too high. People are looking at ways to reduce their debt and increase their income. It also gives people a whole new way of thinking around recycling and being more sustainable. We say that it is only limited by your imagination.
Have you had any support from other business partners?
We have been very encouraged by the amount of support that we have received and have two large corporates, NZ Post and NZI that we are currently working with around some pretty amazing ideas.
Why have you personally decided to involve yourself in this?
Our world has changed so much over the last 40 years and will change so much more in the next 40 years. We want to be part of the change for the better. If we don't do this, then who will and if not now, then when?
What have you got out of it?
Humility, friendships and stories. We have met some amazing New Zealanders as we travelled around the country. Every day Kiwis, who are struggling to stay in business, struggling to bring up families, and struggling to make ends meet, but who can still share an idea, a laugh and a beer with you. That to us is pretty special.
Do you have other ideas?
Yes, watch this space.
Next week: It can be said that NZ game developers punch seriously above their weight, the likes of Sidhe Interactive, SmallWorlds and Ninja Kiwi. I want to hear from more game developers making some major strides here and overseas who are not so well known - yet. I know you are out there, please get in touch.