Over the last 6 years, AgrigateOne has built a unique set of client nodes throughout the supply chain. At the foundation of all these clients, we have one data set that is viewed by all parties based on stringent permission sets. Each user across the chain has access to their data at specific points when the goods are under their control. Each of these nodes sit in their own vertical and we have built a tool to enable a horizontal data set to unlock further synergies between all parties.
This has enabled the launch of OneSwitch, which main goal is to:
- Unlock new markets with trusted partners
- Increase carton level returns through increased efficiencies
- Secure transactions through facilitated payments
Please see below Q&A to familiarize yourself with what OneSwitch is and what it sets out to do:
Q&A with Peter Kroon, Head of OneSwitch.
Q: What is OneSwitch?
A: OneSwitch is a digital enablement platform developed by AgrigateOne that connects suppliers directly with buyers, such as fruit importers, retailers and wholesalers. It is designed to facilitate seamless trade by offering a simple and efficient way for suppliers to list their produce, communicate directly with buyers and complete transactions. By leveraging the AgrigateOne platform, OneSwitch helps eliminate many of the traditional barriers to trade, making it easier for both suppliers and buyers to initiate, negotiate, execute and complete a trade.
Q: Who can benefit from OneSwitch?
A: OneSwitch is a versatile platform that benefits a wide range of client sets in the agricultural supply chain:
- Suppliers: Whether you are a small scale farmer or part of a larger multinational operation, OneSwitch helps you easily connect with buyers who are looking for fresh, quality produce.
- Fruit buyers and distributors (Importers, retailers, wholesalers): OneSwitch enables importers to discover new suppliers, negotiate prices and secure reliable shipments of fresh produce.
- Agricultural trades and marketplaces: Brokers, Co-operatives and other intermediaries can use OneSwitch to help facilitate trades between suppliers and buyers.
Q: How does OneSwitch work?
A: OneSwitch works by digitising the entire trading process between suppliers and buyers. The platform enables buyers to create detailed orders, showcasing quality, quantity, price, and demand window. Suppliers, on the other hand, can browse these orders, load estimates, compare prices, and confirm orders directly with the Buyers. The platform still promotes direct communication between Buyer and Supplier to build long term trust between parties.
Key features of how OneSwitch works include:
- Listing Produce: Suppliers can easily upload details about their produce, including type, quantity, timing & quality.
- Search and Discovery: Buyers can request what they need and OneSwitch will allocate possible supply to the buyer matches.
- Transaction Management: Once both parties agree on the terms, the platform enables smooth transaction processing, helping to manage everything from Quality control, document generation, shipment details, debtor management and payment management.
Q: Why should Suppliers use OneSwitch?
A: Suppliers can benefit greatly from using OneSwitch because it simplifies the complex process of finding reputable buyers, negotiating prices, executing the trade and ensuring timely payments. Some specific advantages for suppliers include:
- Increased Market Access: OneSwitch connects suppliers to a broader network of buyers, making it easier to find reliable and high-volume purchasers for their produce.
- Better Price Discovery: The platform helps suppliers get a fair price for their goods by allowing them to compare offers from multiple buyers and negotiate directly at a comparable level. This is accessible through the use of our incoterm calculator.
- Simplified Transactions: OneSwitch streamlines the process of closing deals, ensuring that farmers are paid promptly and that transactions are fully transparent.
- Lower Costs: By enabling more efficient workflows using OneFlow the suppliers can export the quality produce at a greater net return to farm.
Q: Why should buyers use OneSwitch?
A: Buyers will find OneSwitch valuable for a number of reasons:
- Streamlined supplier discovery: OneSwitch provides an efficient and simple way to discover new suppliers, reducing the time and effort typically spent on sourcing produce
- Reliable sourcing: With detailed produce listings, buyers can be sure they are getting accurate information on product availability and quality.
- Direct negotiations: The OneSwitch platform promotes direct communication between buyers and suppliers, making it easier to negotiate terms, ask questions and ensure the terms of the deal are clear. Once finalised the terms are uploaded to the platform for order management.
- AgrigateOne enables visibility back into the packhouse and enhances transparency for all parties involved.
Q: I am a buyer and want to access the OneSwitch product, what are the next steps?
A: Getting started is a quick and simple process:
- Visit our website: Go to www.agrigateone.com and click book a demo.
- Discuss your requirements: Suppliers and Buyers can discuss their trading needs and what exactly they are looking for.
- Onboarded: You will be onboarded onto the system and once complete will have access to the OneSwitch feature set.
- Track your deals: Once a trade is agreed you will have access to full AgrigateOne feature sets to track, manage, negotiate and finalise trades.
Q: I am a supplier and would like to be involved with OneSwitch, what are the next steps?
A: As a farmer you will need the following:- Be an AgrigateOne SAAS client
- Have a SARS exporter code
- Have a DALRRD issued, Exporter FBO code
- Have a PPECB issued exporter code
- Have a Paltrack issued, two digit organisation code
Q: What makes OneSwitch different from other trading platforms?
A: OneSwitch stands out as a trade optimisation solution tailored specifically for the fresh produce industry. Unlike broad-market trading platforms, it focuses on simplifying and enhancing transactions between suppliers and buyers, ensuring efficiency and sector-specific support. This focus allows the platform to cater to the unique needs of these users, providing:- Industry-specific features: From pricing trends, everything in OneSwitch is designed to meet the needs of agricultural role players.
- Visibility and transparency: OneSwitch enables both parties the tools to ensure smooth and transparent interactions between suppliers and buyers.
- Transaction support: The platform simplifies payments and logistics, ensuring that both parties have peace of mind throughout the trade process.
- Transparency: OneSwitch concentrates around showing all parties as much information as their permissions grant them.
Q: How much does OneSwitch cost:
A: OneSwitch offers per container pricing, making it accessible to suppliers and buyers at different stages of their trading journey. This includes advanced tools for trading, real-time market data, and priority customer support, ideal for businesses looking to scale their operations.Q: What is the standard incoterm that OneSwitch deals run on:
A: Most deals will run directly with receivers and therefore more often than not this is on a CIF level basis.
Q: Does OneSwitch also involve the local market in South Africa?
A: Yes, indeed. AgrigateOne is set up to assist on your whole crop and you therefore should be able to have access to all markets no matter what grade or specification.
If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us through our website.
