YouTube is set to acquire Indian video e-commerce platform Simsim, as part of its efforts to help small businesses and retailers in India reach new customers.
“We are taking another step to help viewers discover and buy products from local businesses: we have signed a definitive agreement to acquire Simsim and expect to complete the transaction in the coming weeks,” Google said in a blogpost.
There will be no immediate changes to Simsim and the app will continue operating independently, PTI reported. YouTube is working on ways to showcase Simsim offers to YouTube viewers.
Simsim co-founders Amit Bagaria, Kunal Suri and Saurabh Vashishtha said the platform was started to help users across India shop online with ease, enabled through small sellers and brands showcasing and selling their products using the power of content by trusted influencers.
Simsim is helping small businesses in India transition to e-commerce by using the power of video and creators. Simsim app serves as a platform to connect local businesses, influencers and customers.
Creators post video reviews about products from local businesses, and viewers can buy those products directly through the app. Videos are available in three local languages including Hindi, Tamil and Bengali.
