They say that sharing is caring, which is especially the case when it comes to sharing umbrellas. A new umbrella-sharing service based in Vancouver, Canada at the University of British Columbia -- where it rains quite often -- is trying to keep students dry when things get wet.
UmbraCity works with the help of automated kiosks, which give out free umbrellas to students to borrow -- at any time. Five installed kiosks enable people to take and return specially marked yellow umbrellas. This helps people stay dryer on campus without having to carry an umbrella around with them all day.
The visible nature of the sharing umbrella also provides marketing and promotional opportunities for vendors in the area.
Free Umbrella Initiatives
UmbraCity is a Sharing Umbrella Service That Helps Students in the Rain
Trend Themes
1. Sharing Economy of Umbrellas - An opportunity for businesses to explore the possibility of creating a sharing service for commonly used items.
2. Smart Kiosk Technology - Companies could consider using smart kiosks or other automated machines to offer a convenient and accessible service for customers.
3. Marketing Through Shared Services - A chance to combine shared services with innovative marketing techniques to promote local businesses and reach target audiences.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality and Tourism - The hotel and tourism industry could offer umbrellas to clients as an added amenity, using the technology and service provided by companies like UmbraCity.
2. Retail and Shopping Centers - Malls and stores could benefit from offering umbrellas to their shoppers, using creative marketing strategies to gain exposure while providing a necessary and appreciated service.
3. Transportation - Companies in the transportation industry such as airports and train stations could utilize smart kiosks to offer travelers the convenience of borrowing an umbrella while waiting for their transportation to arrive.