Singapore startup FreshTurf gets an edge with IBM's blockchain tech

by Abhinav Mohapatra

Business solutions provider IBM today announced that it is working with Singapore startup, FreshTurf in the Singapore location of its Bluemix Garage network. Using IBM Cloud and Blockchain technologies, FreshTurf has been working with the Bluemix Garage developers and designers to create a network of storage lockers for shipping and parcel delivery throughout Singapore. This is designed to help improve the “last mile” of delivery services for consumers and businesses, or the final leg of a package’s journey to a customer’s home.

Fueled by and built on Bluemix, IBM’s cloud platform, the duo intend to build a distributed ledger platform prototype specifically designed to manage commercial transactions between merchants, logistic vendors, locker companies and consumers. They believe that this would help provide visibility across the fulfillment chain, allowing users to track their parcel and delivery status from the convenience of their phone. Also, it can help stakeholders to conduct shipping transactions in a highly secure and trusted environment. “As a startup, we wanted a partner and mentor who would guide us through the journey of adopting blockchain and building with cloud, while also helping us to grow,” said Jarryl Hong, Co-Founder, FreshTurf.
“During the Design Thinking workshop, we had access to technical expertise, consulting and guidance through working with the IBM Bluemix Garage which allowed us to quickly build our concept. The IBM Bluemix Garage’s methods of Design Thinking, use of cloud and agile development practices served as the foundation of our startup.”
Bluemix Garages serve as a hub where developers, product managers and designers can come together to build on Bluemix. The Singapore Bluemix Garage is one of the latest in IBM’s global network, which also includes locations in San Francisco, London, Toronto, Nice and Tokyo. “IBM is working closely with startups and larger enterprises alike to accelerate the design and development of blockchain applications,” said Alan Lim, Practice Lead, IBM Blockchain & Bluemix Garage, ASEAN.
“Blockchain represents a very exciting and vital part of IBM’s business. Organizations large and small have the potential to disrupt and fundamentally rewrite existing business models, processes and systems and emerge as leaders in their chosen industry.”
According to IBM, more than 120,000 apps are launched every month on Bluemix. Based in open standards, it features over 150 tools and services spanning categories of big data, mobile, cognitive computing, analytics, security, blockchain and Internet of Things.