Up to date Dr Marta Mas Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences Dr Frederic Marimon Full Professor in Business and Administration and Vice-Rector of Planning and Quality
New business models based on collaborative consumption Over the past few years, we have observed the emergence of new companies whose business is based on two main pillars. First, they use business models based on platforms that make it possible to match suppliers and customers; and second, the product or service that is subject to transaction is an idle asset for the provider, or spare capacity that the provider can offer. It is obvious that internet has enhanced the first pillar, while the second is a result of the today’s sensitivity for the environment and the circular economy. The model consists in enhancing the interaction between the owner of an “unoccupied” or idle asset, who wants to make it available to anyone who needs it, and the potential user of this asset. We use the term “user” here purposely, because it does not signify ownership of the product. The seeker, in this case, only wants to use it . Therefore, in the conceptualisation of the model, three actors interact. The company that owns the platform which helps match owners and customers; the owner of the idle asset (or spare capacity); and the customer that wishes to use this asset or service. While a number of different authors have analysed this model, Benoit, et al.(2017) provided the definition that has been accepted by academia.
In this case, we are talking about Airbnb or Uber. The company manages the website, on which a supply of properties are available for anyone seeking accommodation. The three actors benefit from the interaction. The platform earns a commission for each transaction; the owner earns rent from the idle asset (property); and the end customer gets a good deal compared to other options. Graph 1 illustrates the model.
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