Today In Connected Economy: Deliveroo Increases GTV Outlook; Square Enhances Beauty Sector Tool

In today’s top connected economy news, Deliveroo saw quarterly food orders soar, while Square Appointments recently launched new features. Plus, Afterpay and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield are teaming to bring malls into the 21st century.

U.K.’s Deliveroo Sees Bright Future, Increases Forecasts For Revenues

Deliveroo, which is based in the United Kingdom, saw an 88 percent jump in quarterly food orders. The firm now forecasts that its gross transaction value (GTV) will expand by 50 percent to 60 percent this year, according to a published report. The prior outlook called for expansion between 30 percent and 40 percent. Deliveroo, along with competitors such as Just Eat Takeaway.com, has received the rewards of pandemic regulations that closed eateries or reduced allowable occupancy.

Square Revamps Beauty Sector Tool To Link Commissions, Payroll

Square Appointments recently rolled out new functionalities that benefit firms and their customers. To that end, retailers can now make a tailored, integrated site to match the design identity of their company and sell their offerings digitally for “omnichannel capabilities.” Firms can also now set commission rates for services and merchandise that are uploaded without intervention to Square Payroll. “We’re continuing to build advanced features for Square Appointments that set the standard for what the beauty industry needs and expects from their [point-of-sale] provider,” Alyssa Henry, executive vice president, Square, said in a post.

Afterpay, Westfield Shopping Centers Partner On BNPL, Mall Plans

Buy now, pay later (BNPL) firm Afterpay and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, which owns Westfield malls in the United States, are collaborating to bring shopping centers into the 21st century. Their tie-up will “jointly invest in new customer experiences, retail innovation, events, marketing and on-premise advertising at Westfield shopping centers,” according to an announcement. “We are thrilled to partner with Westfield, as shoppers and retailers alike celebrate the reopening of stores,” said Zahir Khoja, general manager of Afterpay North America