Startup rides contactless wave

Brett Balsters

‘Stay home, stay safe, stay hydrated’ is the motto of one local entrepreneur who has launched a delivery service in the height of lockdown.

Woy Woy’s Brett Balsters started ‘Quick Drinks’ this month – a contactless delivery service that provides local produce, seafood, small goods and a growing range of beer, wine and spirits to any household on the Central Coast.

Balsters said he has already partnered with local business owners including bottle shops, organic seafood farmers, cocktail bars and is looking to connect with more.

“Our initial soft launch has been fantastic,” he said.

“There is certainly an appetite for this type of service.

“Every week it’s growing and really it’s a testament as to how it’s going – it shows people are wanting something different.

“As we grow, we will require more drivers, suppliers, different offerings, and we’re excited that it’s here on the Central Coast and supporting our local businesses and community.”

Balsters said it has been ‘really tough’ to launch during the middle of a lockdown and has relied on building relationships with new partners and customers digitally.

But it has shown him the impact and benefits technology can provide his business.

“Enjoying fine food and a drink often occurs during social events and gatherings, including family gatherings, birthday parties, work parties or simply hanging out down the pub,” he said.

 “We know that these gatherings can only happen through Zoom, Facebook or other online formats at the moment.

“So, we thought: ‘What if those gatherings could receive fine food and drinks in good time to log on for that family catch-up?’ [and] that’s what started us thinking that this could work.

“Quick Drinks can help keep these meetings and catch-ups enjoyable with a contactless delivery service.

“The idea has been around for a while – it wasn’t just a response to lockdown – it was also due to the rise in delivery and on demand services.

“I’m a foodie and I really enjoy great produce and a good bottle of anything; I love food and I want something special about it and I wanted to bring that to other people’s lives.

“And I’m seeing this Coast-wide too.

“I’m seeing a lot of local businesses really start to ramp it up, think outside the box, work together and put out some really cool menu options that didn’t exist, to my knowledge, when COVID-19 first hit.

“I think it’s great to be part of that social momentum that helps our community stay home, stay safe and eat well.”

Quick Drinks is open seven days a week and delivers same day until 8pm from Thursday to Saturday, and until 7pm from Sunday to Wednesday.

More information about the delivery service is available at www.QuickDrinks.com.au

Maisy Rae