Oschadbank has unveiled an innovative app called Samo, which integrates banking functionalities with marketplace features. This service is specifically designed for small and medium businesses, particularly those lacking their own online stores, as reported by Forbes. Users can select a partner, place an order, pay through the app, and collect their purchases in-store.

Samo currently collaborates with several major partners, including WOG, Socar, Winetime, Okwine, and a number of local businesses in Kyiv, Dnipro, Kropyvnytskyi, and Chernihiv. Plans are underway to expand and introduce a Shop&Go feature, enabling users to scan items in-store, pay online, and exit without waiting in line.

Deputy Chairman of Oschadbank Anton Tyutyun stated that the idea for Samo originated at the beginning of the pandemic, but the pilot project was only implemented in 2023. While the development costs have not been disclosed, experts estimate them to be between $100,000 and $360,000.

Despite the official launch, users faced several issues: SMS codes for login were not received, linking bank cards was problematic, and certain product categories were empty. A Forbes journalist was unable to access the app for several days.

"This isn't even a beta; it's more of a false start," commented Artem Shevchenko, CEO of market by mono, adding that the app operates inconsistently, and self-pickup is only available with significant delays.

Oschadbank acknowledges that Samo is still a work in progress, but they consider it a crucial step in expanding the bank's ecosystem. In 2025, Samo aims to scale to other cities and actively onboard new partners.

According to bank representatives, Samo is intended to complement Oschadbank's digital service portfolio, alongside traditional online banking and the "My ЖК" app for homeowners associations. Experts believe that while the service may not directly compete with Glovo or Rozetka, it can effectively assist small businesses and help retain bank clients.