The business model of sharing power banks

Flexible usage mode:

Users can borrow and return the power bank at any time according to their needs, without worrying about charging and maintenance issues.

Wide coverage:

Shared power banks usually set up borrowing and returning points in places with high traffic such as shopping malls, restaurants, airports, and stations.

Low cost business model:

The operation model of shared power banks generally involves rental fees and deposits, which can recover costs in the short term and achieve profitability in the long term.

Enhance user stickiness: By providing power bank rental services, merchants can attract more customers and extend their stay in the store, which helps to increase the store’s revenue.

Technical progress support:

With the development of smart phones and mobile Internet, the shared power bank system can be managed through APP, and users can easily find, rent and return power bank through mobile phones, which is simple and intuitive.

These factors make shared power banks an efficient, flexible, and convenient commercial solution.

The advantages and disadvantages of renting a power bank with or without a deposit

Renting a power bank without a deposit
advantage:
Reduced the cost of initial use, convenient and fast. Renting without deposit simplifies the rental process for users, making it more convenient for them to rent power banks.
Disadvantages:
This operating method carries risks as there is no deposit as a guarantee. Service providers may face the risk of losing or damaging power banks, increasing rental fees or other management costs. At the same time, some non deposit services may adopt higher rent, overtime fees, or other implicit fees, which may reduce users’ motivation to use them

Renting a power bank without a deposit
advantage:
Reduced the cost of initial use, convenient and fast. Renting without deposit simplifies the rental process for users, making it more convenient for them to rent power banks.
Disadvantages:
This operating method carries risks as there is no deposit as a guarantee. Service providers may face the risk of losing or damaging power banks, increasing rental fees or other management costs. At the same time, some non deposit services may adopt higher rent, overtime fees, or other implicit fees, which may reduce users’ motivation to use them

What are the charging rules for shared power banks?

Rental fee:

Users need to pay a certain rent when renting a portable power bank. Rental fees are calculated on an hourly or daily basis

Deposit:

To ensure the return of the power bank within the specified time, the service provider will set a deposit. If the user returns the power bank on time, the deposit will be refunded; If the deadline is exceeded or the power bank is damaged, the deposit may be partially or fully deducted

Overtime fee:

If the user cannot return the power bank within the specified time, a timeout fee will be incurred. The collection of overtime fees can be calculated on an hourly or daily basis, but the specific standards are determined by different service providers.

Damage or loss costs:

If the power bank is damaged or lost during use, the user needs to compensate for the corresponding costs.

Return location:

Some shared power bank services require users to return the power bank at a specific location or station. Failure to return it as required may result in additional fees.

Package or membership system:

Some service providers may offer packages or membership systems, where users can enjoy more rental time or discounts after paying a fixed fee.

The specific billing rules may vary depending on the service provider.

The convenience of renting a power bank through POS payment

Simplified payment process:

Users can use credit cards, debit cards, mobile payments, and other methods to make payments directly through POS machines, without the need to carry cash or complex payment devices. This can improve the convenience and efficiency of payment.

Ready to use:

Renting a power bank through POS payment usually supports a ready to use mode, where users can quickly complete the rental process when needed without the need for cumbersome procedures or waiting time.

Improving security:

POS payment systems typically use encryption technology to ensure data security during the transaction process. Compared to cash transactions or traditional recharge methods, POS payments may be more secure and reliable.

Real time payment and settlement:

POS payment can process transactions and settlements in real time, reducing manual processing errors and delays, and also facilitating merchants to track rental situations in real time.

More extensive payment methods:

POS payments typically support multiple payment methods, such as credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments (such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.), to meet the payment habits and needs of different users.

Easy to manage and record:

POS systems typically provide detailed transaction records for users and merchants to manage and reconcile their accounts. Users can view their payment records at any time, and merchants can better track and manage their rental business.

Improving user experience:

Through POS payment, users can enjoy a smoother and seamless rental experience without worrying about the hassle of finding change or carrying cash

Where do users usually rent shared power banks in the United States?

Airports and train stations:

Large transportation hubs such as airports and train stations typically offer shared power bank rental services, making it convenient for travelers to charge their devices while waiting.

Shopping centers and malls:

Large shopping centers and malls may have shared power bank rental stations to meet customers’ needs for charging during the shopping process.

Scenic spots and event venues:

Shared power bank rental points may be set up in tourist attractions, exhibitions, and event venues to provide convenience for tourists and participants.

Hotels and resorts:

Some hotels and resorts may offer shared power bank rental services for guests to recharge at any time.

University Campus:

Within university campuses, especially large campuses or busy student activity centers, shared power bank rental services may be provided to meet the needs of students.

Public transportation:

Although relatively limited, some cities’ public transportation systems may offer power bank rental services at stations or on vehicles.

What is the difference between a shared power bank agent and a merchant?

Role and Responsibilities:
Agent: The agent is mainly responsible for promoting the shared power bank brand, establishing and maintaining cooperative relationships,
Merchant: Merchants directly operate and manage the specific business of sharing power banks, such as setting up power bank rental points, managing equipment maintenance, and handling user services. Merchants usually sign contracts with power bank brands or agents to acquire a certain number of devices and carry out localized operations.

scope of business:
Agency: The scope of agency business is usually broad, which may involve market promotion in multiple cities or regions, with a focus on brand expansion and agency management.
Merchants: The business scope of merchants is usually concentrated in specific stores or areas, focusing on specific device management and daily operations.

Source of income:
Agency: The income of an agency mainly comes from the commission or share specified in the agency contract, and the income level may be linked to the promotion effect and business volume.
Merchant: The merchant’s income comes from direct rental or service fees, and the level of income depends on the frequency of device usage and management efficiency.

Investment and Risk:
Agency: Agency requires a significant investment of resources in market promotion and partnership building, and faces risks including market competition and brand maintenance.
Merchants: Merchants need to invest funds to purchase equipment, set up rental points, and provide maintenance services, and the main risks they face are equipment management and user service issues.

Seizing the foreign market, which one is more suitable, fast charging or standard power bank?

User demand:

The user’s demand for charging speed will affect the brand’s product selection.

Standard regulations:

Different countries and regions may have different charging technologies and safety standards. Shared power bank brands need to comply with local laws and regulations and choose products that meet local standards.

Charging infrastructure:

In markets with developed charging infrastructure (such as Europe, North America, etc.), users may be more inclined to use fast charging technology to reduce charging time. In markets with relatively insufficient charging infrastructure, standard power banks may be more common.

Brand positioning:

The positioning of shared power banks may also affect product selection. If the brand is positioned as high-end and fast service, it may choose to provide fast charging technology. If positioned as an economical service, standard power banks with lower costs may be chosen.

Cost and economic benefits:

Fast charging technology power banks usually have higher costs, and brands need to evaluate whether they can cover costs and gain profits through higher rental prices or other value-added services while providing faster charging services

OEM OR ODM for shared power banks

ODM:

It is a more secure choice, especially for startups or entrepreneurs with limited funds. Through the agency model, entrepreneurs can quickly enter the market, accumulate experience and capital, without the need to invest a lot of resources and energy in brand building and marketing, as these tasks are usually handled by suppliers. ‌

OEM:

It provides greater development space and challenges. For entrepreneurs with research and development capabilities and market insights, the OEM model may be more attractive. By establishing their own brand, entrepreneurs can better control product quality and service levels, while also having the opportunity to form their own characteristics and advantages in market competition

In terms of strategy selection, entrepreneurs can consider combining agency and OEM models. In the initial stage, one can choose the agency model to accumulate experience and funding, and gradually shift to the OEM model for independent innovation and brand building when conditions are ripe. This flexible strategy can help entrepreneurs better cope with market changes and risk challenges, achieving sustainable development

The usage mode of shared power banks abroad

Self service mode:

Users can directly rent by scanning the QR code or using the automatic charging station, and return it after use

Partner model:

Shared power bank enterprises cooperate with shopping malls, hotels, airports, etc. to provide charging services, increase brand exposure, and provide users with more convenient charging services

Customized service model:

customized shared power bank services for specific scenarios or groups, providing personalized power bank services according to user needs

In the United States, shared power bank services have become a growing market. Users can rent power banks through mobile applications or automatic charging stations, with hourly billing This mode provides convenience for people, especially when traveling, shopping, or working, without worrying about the battery running out

In terms of payment methods, overseas shared power banks support multiple payment methods, including using third-party payment (mainstream third-party payment companies in various countries) APIs through rental apps to complete the payment chain, connecting POS machines to power bank cabinets for card payments, and using NFC payments

Shared fast charging power bank and magnetic charging power bank

Charging speed and power:
Shared fast charging power banks are typically designed for fast charging of mobile devices, with high charging power and speed, capable of charging devices faster.
Magnetic power banks may have lower charging speed and power, and are generally used for daily light replenishment, making them convenient to carry and use.

Charging interface type:
Shared fast charging power banks usually support multiple charging interfaces and are compatible with various mobile devices.
Magnetic power banks usually use magnetic connections and do not support multiple different devices

Convenience:
Shared fast charging power banks can be rented through an app, suitable for users with fast charging needs.
Magnetic power banks are suitable for daily portable use due to their magnetic design.

Cost and availability:
Shared fast charging power bank payment for usage fees.
Magnetic power bank payment requires purchasing multiple interface types separately to adapt to different devices.