The Deliveroo for Fashion – Need It For Tonight
We speak with Simone Oloman, the CEO of ‘Need It For Tonight‘, the on-demand fashion delivery app that is your saviour for those last minute plans.
What led you to founding NIFT?
Rox, my co-founder (and sister!) had experienced a late delivery for an item that she had planned to wear for an event later that day, she shared her experience with me which led us into a conversation at just how flawed delivery is in London: late and (long) deliveries, missed deliveries, inability to track orders, environmentally unfriendly deliveries. It dawned on us both that while London has many incredible on-demand delivery apps, there was no equivalent service for fashion – where people could get access to quality brands / shops without the fear of a missed delivery! Despite the incredible range of independent and local stores across London, there didn’t seem to be a way for customers to discover what was in their area – like you can with food delivery apps.
We have both spent years working for award winning VC backed tech start-ups/scaleups – which has helped massively! I came from a Retail-Tech background where I focused on selling and consulting to leading retailers, whereas Roxanne has worked primarily in strategy & sales for FinTech scale ups.
Our experience in the tech startup world has proven invaluable, as it taught us to be versatile and wear many hats in an early-stage start-up environment, gaining exposure to various aspects of the business—a valuable asset that we both share. During my time at a previous tech company, I was able to analyse customer data in the platform from retailers, particularly the queries and complaints. Unsurprisingly, a significant portion of the data revolved around delivery issues, such as parcels not arriving, delivery status discrepancies, and tracking concerns. Armed with this knowledge, we shaped NIFT to directly address these customer pain points.
What was your idea behind NIFT?
We want to create the ultimate on-demand fashion delivery app, a go-to marketplace where people can conveniently shop for last-minute outfits, recover from a late delivery mishap, or even address fashion emergencies like accidental spills on a shirt.
In these challenging times where brands and shops face numerous struggles, we recognise the importance of revitalising the high street. Our vision extends beyond just providing convenience; we are devoted to fostering a sense of community by actively promoting local shopping.
An apt comparison can be drawn to the impact of food delivery apps in London’s food/restaurant scene, which has witnessed a remarkable surge in niche restaurants and cafes over the past five years. This surge really wouldn’t have been possible with the introduction of delivery apps. We are very much inspired by this success, so have replicated a similar model in the fashion space – we want captivating brands to thrive and flourish.
Our app’s core purpose lies in providing customers with a seamless marketplace, enabling them to discover brands and stores within their radius and facilitating prompt, secure deliveries. Gone are the worries of late deliveries or packages mysteriously hidden behind the wheely bin – our app ensures that deliveries truly arrive on time, every time!
What is your aim with NIFT?
To empower customers to shop with ease, variety and speed.
We are also committed to supporting bricks and mortar stores, helping them keep up with digital pure players, and granting exposure to independent stores and brands. By bridging the gap between the digital and physical retail worlds,
We aim to create a space where traditional and modern shopping experiences coalesce.
We truly believe that convenience and community can coexist, and our app strives to strike the perfect balance between the two. By offering a platform that celebrates local shops while meeting the needs of customers, we envision a future where convenience doesn’t come at the cost of the environment.
NIFT has just launched and partnered with a few stores so far. How has the response been?
The feedback from both retailers and customers has been so uplifting for our team!
Independent retailers, in particular, have benefited from increased exposure to potential customers. Many of the brands and stores we collaborate with previously struggled to offer same-day delivery despite the demand. Customers have really embraced having an exciting new way to shop, knowing they are also supporting local brands in the process!
What brands do you work with so far?
Wild Swans Boutique, Rejina Pyo, Tada & Toy, Been London, The Good Neighbour, Orwell + Austen, Idáh, West Carolina, Blue Nude, Wild Clouds, Storm Label, Anula, Shinjuku Lanes, Les Waves, Woven London Sonia Taouhid – we have 35 more signed up which we are continuing to roll out over summer – stay tuned!
What are your dream brands to offer on the app?
Ganni & Rixo!
How does the app work?
The app embodies a ‘Deliverooesque’ experience!
In the same way as you can browse through a food delivery app where you can explore various restaurants and food options in your vicinity. We’ve
replicated the convenience of this. When you enter your address, a list of shops and brands in your radius become readily accessible.
Once you’ve browsed and selected your desired item, await the quick acceptance of your order by the shop, sit back, relax and expect your order to arrive within 90 minutes. Our app keeps you informed every step of the way, providing real-time updates on your order’s progress, including the ability to track the rider’s journey. To add an extra layer of security and guarantee a successful delivery, you present the rider with a unique code upon their arrival. This is to ensure no more missed deliveries, as well as environmentally unfriendly redeliveries!
What struggles have you faced with creating your app?
Tech Hurdles! Our initial plan was to launch much earlier – we were brimming with optimism! However, the intricacies of the technology involved, such as logistics, seamless integration into retailers’ e-commerce systems, and real-time delivery tracking, presented challenges. Juggling multiple elements demanded meticulous attention, but luckily, we were equipped with a fab tech team and valuable feedback from retailers. This allowed us to fine-tune and create a platform that best catered to both their needs and customers too.
I noticed you have a rent section on the app. Will you be partnering with any rental platforms?
Exciting collaborations with rental companies are on the horizon! Stay tuned…!
The fashion sector in particular is a major contributor to landfill and sustainability issues with fabric use and water in the production of clothing. Do you think your platform will encourage people to think about what they’re purchasing?
Environmental consciousness is at the heart of our mission. Our goal is to inspire customers to make mindful last-minute purchases, choosing items they
truly adore and intend to re-wear rather than opting for clothes that hold no lasting commitment.
We’ve made a real effort to forge meaningful partnerships with like-minded brands that prioritise quality over fleeting trends. By partnering with these brands, we ensure that the clothing we offer is made to last and promoting a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion.
The detrimental impact of fast fashion on the environment is a concern close to our hearts. We believe in championing an alternative approach that encourages people to shop more locally and consciously. By supporting local stores, we not only contribute to the growth of our communities but also reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods over long distances.
In the future, where would you like to see your delivery providers going?
To other major UK cities and eventually global!
What is next for need it for tonight?
We are excited that the option to rent items will soon be launching on the app. We also have some great brand partnerships in the pipeline, and an exciting roadmap ready to roll out!
Need It For Tonight is available on the App Store and Google Play store now.