Stylerunner founders and sisters Sali Sasi and Julie Stevanja are back in business together, this time launching a shopping discovery app, Her Black Book.
Set to launch in early November, the app aims to make shopping convenient for time-poor shoppers, giving them direct access to brand promotions and sales.
The idea for Her Black Book was formulated after Sasi became frustrated at searching for codes and coupons in links, emails and forums and missing sales, while Stevanja’s frustrations were felt from the business side, having felt frustrated as a retailer at the lack of premium affiliate options.
To address their frustrations, the pair founded Her Black Book, which has a valuation of $5 million.
"Our app is built with Her in mind and is led by design," Sasi commented.
"Our vision is to become a staple on every woman’s phone and become the one-stop-destination that connects brand promotions and product discovery," she said.
The app aims to attract Gen Z, Millennial and discerning shoppers and currently offers them product categories: Fashion, Sport, Accessories, Beauty, Homeware, Kids and Travel.
Brands on board with the concept so far include Zimmermann, Alice McCall, Sass & Bide, Carla Zampatti, Rachel Gilbert, Ginger & Smart, Ksubi, Asos, Cosette, Bondi Born, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Saba, Stylerunner, Nike, Lululemon, Bonds, Berlei, Estée Lauder, Bangn Body, Swiish Wellness, Endota Spa, JS Health, GHD, Adairs and bookings.com.au.
Stevanja added that the app will help to address key issues retailers have with their promotional messages and events.
"Promotions and sales are a necessary part of the retail cycle for most brands, and we want to help retailers reach a receptive audience exactly when they need it.
"Far too many brand messages are being missed by enthusiastic would-be shoppers as previously reliable channels increase in cost, decline in effectiveness, or both.
"Most importantly, we want to help retailers address promotional pain points in a premium environment that protects their brand integrity," she said.
Alongside the promotions, the app will have the ability to host editorial and advertorial via its digital magazine and direct shopping links.
The ‘freemium’ app allows users to download and browse offers and promotions including cashback for free, with the option to subscribe to 12-months ($24.99), 6-months ($14.99), or 3-months ($9.99) + GST for full access to flash sales listings and notifications from brands.
Brands can choose to partner with the app via its partner portal, or can sign up using select existing affiliate channels.
Sasi added that the Her Black Book is launching in time for key promotional periods.
"With November bringing Click Frenzy, Singles Day and Black Friday to name a few, we’re leading into the most promotional time of year which is the perfect time for consumers to explore the app and for retailers to reach a new audience with their offers," she said.
Her Black Book is also about giving back, with the business set to donate $10,000 annually to female focussed charities through its ‘Up Close’ feature that profiles inspiring women.
Her Black Book is set to launch on November 1, pending iOS and Android approval.
