What is the losume Project?
losume is all about making local shopping easier, faster, and way more convenient. It’s a smart platform that distributes a consumer’s request to relevant local businesses — no more endless searching or hopping from site to site. Just share a photo, screenshot, or any visual that shows what you need, and losume does the rest. Whether you’re flexible or super specific about quantity, colour, or style, losume helps you find a match. Plus, if you prefer privacy, you can use a nickname and there’s no pressure to buy. Right now, the pilot is running in Co Sligo, giving locals a fresh way to connect with nearby stores.
Main Benefits of Using losume
Here’s what makes losume stand out:
- Save time searching various business premises or websites — just ask once.
- Cut down on unnecessary trips — less driving, less hassle.
- Support your local economy easily — find out who’s got what, where.
- It’s free and private — no tricks, no tracking.
- No car or mobility issues? Just ‘losume it’ and get what you need.
- Works for almost anything — except mostly not FMCG (groceries).
How Does losume Work?
Using losume is pretty straightforward. First, set your local area once, so the app knows where to look. Then, share an image or screengrab — just one or two will do. The app sends your request to stores in your area that might have what you’re after. You’ll get responses telling you who has it, where it’s available, and you can chat privately to ask questions or arrange pickup. The consumer-facing screen shows a search bar at the top where you can enter an image, and a chat box at the bottom for extra details. For example, if you upload a screenshot of a blue chair you like, you can ask for something similar or exactly like it.
Privacy and User Control
losume is designed with privacy in mind. There are no tricks or tracking involved, so users can feel safe sharing their requests. Permissions and notifications are optional and can be edited anytime within the app. If you want to keep things private, just use a nickname — no need to reveal your real identity. This approach encourages more people to participate without worrying about data misuse or spam. It’s all about making local shopping simple and secure.
Encouraging Local Business Participation
Adoption might be slow at first — that’s normal for any new platform. But the key is to spread the word and tell local businesses about losume. The more shops that join, the better the experience for everyone. It’s a win-win: businesses get more visibility and customers get quicker answers. The pilot in Co Sligo is a great starting point, and if it catches on, it could expand to other areas. So, if you’re a local business owner or shopper, jumping in early helps build a stronger local economy.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — by supporting local businesses and creating new opportunities.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — encouraging local shopping reduces travel and emissions.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — promoting smarter, less wasteful purchasing habits.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure — leveraging technology to connect consumers and stores.
Getting Early Access and What’s Next
Want to be among the first to try losume? Early access is available now in Co Sligo. Just download the app, set your local area, and start sharing your requests. Remember, it’s free, private, and designed to help you support your local economy without the usual hassle. No tricks, no tracking — just a simple way to find what you need nearby. So, whether you’re looking for that perfect chair, a unique gadget, or something else, give losume a go and see how local shopping can be refreshed for the digital age.
