Kalvin Omollo is the founder of Go Deliveries, an innovative on-demand delivery service based in Nairobi, Kenya. What sets Kalvin’s business apart from any other business is its humble beginning. With a background in the pharmacy, Kalvin realized something right after Covid-19 hit. A realization that became a door to opening this new chapter.
The Birth of Go Deliveries
During the pandemic, when most people were confined in their homes, Kalvin observed that accessing basic healthcare supplies was challenging for many. Seeing an opportunity to fill this gap, he started delivering medicine to clients. He managed to convince three riders who ultimately joined his business plan. With time, their main point of focus was delivering medicine, as Kalvin personally handled orders by phone. This simple idea quickly grew into a fully fledged business.
As the business strengthened, Kalvin recognized a broader demand for deliveries beyond just medicine. Recognizing the gap that needed to be filled, he observed the booming growth of food and alcohol delivery services. He decided to expand Go Deliveries to cover the areas of both food and alcohol. By partnering with his trusted riders, he could build a strong, loyal team. Kalvin offered them better commissions and working conditions, resulting in a mutually beneficial situation for all. Kalvin provided them with better commissions and working conditions, creating a win-win situation for all.
Navigating Challenges and Building Trust
One of the biggest challenges Kalvin faced right from the beginning was building trust and credibility. The bigger task he had at hand was convincing high-end restaurants and pharmacies to partner with him. Was it easy? Of course, not.
The bigger task he had at hand was convincing high-end restaurants and pharmacies to partner with him.
He had to go an extra mile to demonstrate the potential Go Deliveries had. Through persistence, transparency, and a focus on serving his mission, he managed to gain the trust of both vendors and customers.
Kalvin also faced operational challenges. Managing deliveries across different sectors, like medicine, food, and alcohol, came with logistical challenges. To counter this challenge, he invested his time in developing a user-friendly app that streamlined orders and delivery processes. The app enabled customers to place orders easily and aided riders in efficiently managing multiple deliveries, thereby improving the customer experience.
Supporting Riders and Local Communities
Kalvin’s commitment to fair treatment of his riders is one of the defining aspects of Go Deliveries. Recognizing that many delivery platforms charge huge commissions of up to 40% (in some cases), for him he set Go Deliveries’ commission rates at a much more reasonable 20%. This allows riders to earn a fair wage while still keeping the service affordable for customers.
Go Deliveries also provides a one-on-one training for its riders, ensuring they have the necessary skills and know-how to handle different types of deliveries, from perishable food to delicate medicine. In addition, the company offers insurance for its riders, covering them in case of accidents. Moreover, during difficult times, such as bad weather or challenging road conditions, Kalvin ensures that riders receive 100% of their service charge, compensating them for the extra effort required.
Go Deliveries also provides a one-on-one training for its riders, ensuring they have the necessary skills and know-how
Kalvin has always placed a strong emphasis on community and teamwork. He actively supports his riders, offering small gestures like treating them to lunch to boost morale and relief stress during busy times. This approach has helped create a loyal and motivated team, further contributing to the success of Go Deliveries.
Future Growth and Expansion
Looking ahead, Kalvin has ambitious plans for Go Deliveries. He aims to expand the service to areas outside Nairobi, tapping into regions where delivery services are still underdeveloped. His vision goes beyond Kenya, as he hopes to one day expand to other African countries like Nigeria and South Africa, and even Europe.
Kalvin also sees technology playing a critical role in the company’s future. He plans to integrate AI and other advanced technologies into the Go Deliveries app to boost efficiency and improve the overall customer experience. This unique approach ensures that Go Deliveries remains competitive in the ever-evolving market.
Every setback is an opportunity to grow and improve.
Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Kalvin has demonstrated resilience throughout his entrepreneurial journey, despite the many challenges he encountered. One of the key lessons he notes is the importance of learning from mistakes. He believes that every setback is an opportunity to grow and improve. For aspiring entrepreneurs, his advice is simple: focus on a niche market, build strong relationships with your team, and stay adaptable in a fast-changing environment.
From delivering medicine during a global pandemic to creating a thriving business that supports both riders and local vendors, Kalvin’s journey with Go Deliveries serves as an inspiring example of how passion and dedication can drive entrepreneurial success.
