Rakuten to launch flea market app 'Rakuma'

Rakuten Inc on Monday announced the launch of “Rakuma,” a new flea market app that will enable transactions between individuals via smartphone. The Android version of the app will launch on November 25, with the iOS version being available for download in the near future.

As of Monday, items for sale can be registered via the Rakuma website in advance of the launch of the service.

“Rakuma” is an app that enables users to buy and sell items just like in a real flea market environment. Exhibiting items is a simple process and using a smartphone camera can be completed in a little as one minute. The app also allows direct communication between the seller and the buyer, making it easy and worry-free to confirm product details and negotiate a price.

There are no charges for displaying a product and no charges when a transaction is completed (commission-free) and the proceeds from sale are transferred to the designated bank account as quickly as the same day on which the buyer confirms receipt of the product. It is also possible for proceeds from sale to not be transferred, but to be held over for future product purchases.

Users can select from credit card or convenience store payment to settle product purchases. It is also possible to use Rakuten Super Points for payment.

Settlement through “Rakuma” is simple and hassle-free for both buyers and sellers, utilizing a settlement substitution system that makes the payment to the seller after receipt of the product by the buyer has been confirmed.

Through “Rakuma” and the launch of this new service, Rakuten aims to attract younger users and further expand the online re-use market, cooperating with and complementing the operations of Rakuten Auction, Inc. Furthermore, with this secure and easy-to-use service, Rakuten will work to further improve its range of services to ensure that Rakuten members can enjoy shopping for a wide range of products.

© Japan Today