PickMe Expands Reach to Jaffna and Anuradhapura
PickMe, the app-based mobility company, has extended its operations by opening new branch offices in Jaffna and Anuradhapura. This expansion follows a six-month pilot program aimed at introducing ride-hailing services to Sri Lanka’s Northern provinces. According to COO Isira Perera, over 6,000 new drivers have registered from these districts, enhancing economic opportunities and connectivity. PickMe is also targeting the tourism market, especially with increased flights to Palaly International Airport and plans to develop the KKS port.
CEO Jiffry Zulfer highlighted the company’s interest in the Free Individual Traveller (FIT) market and entrepreneurs in the food supply business. PickMe offers various services, including food delivery, parcel transportation, and logistical support, benefiting local businesses by ensuring timely deliveries and operational efficiency. The expansion also supports sustainable tourism by providing convenient transportation options to cultural sites like Anuradhapura and Jaffna, enhancing the travel experience for visitors.
While physical offices are not essential for their digital platform, PickMe believes having a local presence instills confidence in users regarding safety and accessibility. The company plans to open more regional offices to support smart travel and logistics for both locals and tourists.
PickMe Launches JumJum in Nepal
In May 2024, PickMe expanded its platform to Nepal under the brand name JumJum, in collaboration with Nepal’s largest fintech service provider, F1Soft. This strategic partnership aims to cater to Nepal’s motorcycle segment, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley, which hosts a significant number of motorcycles. JumJum will initially focus on the valley, home to 40% of Nepal’s 2.5 million registered motorbikes.
This move follows a $2.5 million equity investment by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in PickMe in 2018. IFC Sri Lanka and Maldives Country Manager Alejandro Alvarez de la Campa praised PickMe’s diversification and job creation efforts, expressing delight at its expansion into Nepal.
F1Soft Group President Biswas Dhakal emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership, aiming to redefine ride-hailing solutions in Nepal. PickMe Chairman Ajit Gunewardene highlighted the company’s vision of international standards and the importance of this venture as a stepping stone to further expansion.
PickMe CEO Jiffry Zulfer sees this as a lesson for Sri Lanka in expanding digital businesses regionally, showcasing the potential of local startups to grow internationally and become foreign exchange earners. With initiatives leveraging Generative AI solutions, PickMe aims to provide locally nuanced services tailored to consumer patterns in Nepal.
