Bojonegoro, Aktualita.co — The introduction of the digital platform Pasar.id is seen as opening new opportunities for traditional market traders in Bojonegoro to reach a broader consumer base. However, the benefits of this digitalization are not yet considered automatically proportional to an increase in traders' revenue.
Jasman, a trader at the Bojonegoro City Market, stated that utilizing digital platforms is a positive step toward introducing traditional markets to a public that is increasingly accustomed to technology.
“It is certainly good for introducing the market to a wider audience. Many people are now used to using applications and digital payments. But for traditional market traders, the results are not necessarily felt immediately,” said Jasman.
According to him, the majority of buyers who visit his stall are still regular customers who prefer to transact in person.
For some consumers, shopping at the market is not just about purchasing necessities. They also want to see the condition of the goods firsthand, compare products, and interact with the traders.
This habit is one of the reasons why conventional transactions still dominate buying and selling activities in traditional markets.
Traders' Digital Literacy Remains a Challenge
Jasman believes that the challenge of market digitalization does not end with the availability of an application. The traders' ability to use technology is also a crucial factor.
Not all traders are accustomed to operating applications, managing online orders, or using digital payment systems.
“Traders who are already used to using smartphones might find it easier to adapt. But for older traders, there is certainly a need for ongoing guidance and training,” he said.
According to him, this guidance is necessary so that digitalization is not only utilized by a small number of traders who are already tech-savvy.
Without adequate training, the gap in digital skills could potentially prevent the platform from being used to its full potential.
Internet, Delivery, and Promotion Are Also Decisive
Beyond the traders' skills, the success of market digitalization also depends on several supporting factors.
Stable internet connectivity, goods delivery systems, ease of payment, and promotion to the public are essential components in building a digital transaction ecosystem.
If these aspects are not functioning optimally, there is a concern that the digital platform will merely become an additional facility without providing a significant impact on traders' sales.
On the other hand, digitalization is still considered to have the potential to expand market reach, especially for consumers who do not have the time to visit the market in person.
Digital platforms can also serve as an alternative for traditional markets to adapt to changing shopping patterns among the public, who are increasingly relying on online services.
Digitalization Expected Not to Erase Market Character
Jasman hopes that the development of market digitalization will continue to respect the unique character of traditional markets.
According to him, technological innovation should be a means to gain new customers and simplify transactions, not to completely replace the interaction patterns that have long been the market's main attraction.
“Such innovation would be more beneficial if it could help traders gain new customers without losing the unique character of the traditional market, which has been their main strength all along,” he said.
Ultimately, market digitalization requires a process of adaptation from both traders and consumers. Its success depends not only on the existence of an application but also on the readiness of human resources and the supporting ecosystem in the field.
For traders in Bojonegoro, the presence of Pasar.id is an opportunity that is still being tested. The hope is that the use of this technology will not only increase market access but also provide a tangible impact on traders' income.
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