PickMe, a leading ride-hailing service, has made a significant stride by introducing its latest technology partnership, JumJum, in Nepal. With a staggering 78% of registered vehicles in Nepal being motorcycles, the launch of JumJum aims to cater specifically to this market segment, particularly in the bustling Kathmandu Valley, home to approximately 40% of the country’s registered motorbikes. CEO Zulfer Jiffry emphasized the strategic significance of this move, highlighting the immense potential in Nepal’s motorcycle-dominated transportation landscape.
The collaboration between PickMe and F1Soft, Nepal’s largest fintech service provider, underscores a concerted effort to localize services and engage with the Nepalese tech ecosystem. JumJum, named to resonate with Nepali users, is a testament to this partnership’s commitment to adding value to the local economy. This venture marks a significant milestone for PickMe’s expansion beyond Sri Lanka, with a vision to leverage technological expertise and innovation to redefine the ride-hailing sector in Nepal.
PickMe’s expansion into Nepal builds upon its track record of success and innovation, supported by strategic investments, including a $2.5 million equity investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in 2018. The move not only extends PickMe’s footprint across borders but also signifies its role in creating new economic opportunities and fostering job creation in Nepal’s startup ecosystem. Chairman Ajit Gunewardene expressed confidence in the company’s ability to navigate new markets, underscoring PickMe’s commitment to delivering international standards of service.
Biswas Dhakal, President and Chairperson of F1Soft Group, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative potential of the PickMe-F1Soft partnership in redefining digital mobility solutions in Nepal. Leveraging the collective strengths of both entities, JumJum aims to set new benchmarks for excellence and deliver a seamless user experience. As PickMe embarks on its journey to disrupt the Nepalese transportation landscape, CEO Zulfer Jiffry sees this expansion as a valuable lesson for Sri Lanka, highlighting the potential for local startups to scale regionally and contribute to foreign exchange earnings for the country.
Looking ahead, PickMe remains committed to providing locally nuanced solutions tailored to Nepalese consumer habits and preferences. With advancements in Generative AI solutions, the company is poised to understand the local terrain better and deliver services that resonate with the unique needs of the Nepalese market. As PickMe paves the way for digital transformation in Nepal, its expansion serves as an inspiring example for local startups and businesses to explore opportunities beyond borders and harness the potential of regional markets.