Guadalajara has its own digital currency to boost local consumption

Guadalajara, Jal. The Guadalajara Metropolitan Area (ZMG) will have its own digital currency, which will be used to purchase goods and services in local establishments.

Through the platform HoozieConsumers who purchase products or services in this city will be able to access discounts and promotions through a rewards program, explained Joel Myers, CEO of the Irish company Domila LTD, creator of the app.

“It is not a cryptocurrency, but a truly local currency adjusted to the same level as the peso and that can be used and earned only in Guadalajara by both locals and tourists,” Myers explained.

With this digital project, it is also sought to encourage consumption in commercial establishments in the town, generate employment and promote healthy lifestyles, commented the creator of the project.

He indicated that Hoozies They do not fluctuate in value since they are equivalent to Mexican pesos, and expire in a period of approximately one month.

The platform, which was launched as part of the Expo ANTAD (National Association of Self-service and Department Stores), already has an offer of 450 companies and has no cost for them.

The businesses affiliated to the platform may offer promotions that will be paid only with HooziesIn addition, they will also be able to pay their suppliers through this digital currency.

The platform, which emerged in the framework of the economic reactivation of Jalisco After the crisis generated by the pandemic, it required an investment of $ 700,000, which was contributed almost entirely by the entity’s private initiative.

However, the Secretariat of Innovation, Science and Technology (SICyT), contributed 1.2 million pesos through the Jalisco Covid-19 Challenge for the development of the application.

Among the drivers of the application are, in addition, ANTAD and SICyT, the technology company HP, the Guadalajara Convention and Visitors Bureau (OFVC) and the University of Guadalajara.

During its launch in Expo ANTAD and Alimentaria 2021, more than 1,800 downloads were made of the application that is available on iOS and Android, and more than 3,000 business appointments could be agreed through Hoozie, indicated the director of ANTAD, Ignacio Tatto.

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