Afloat Launches Nationwide: Redefining Gift Delivery with Local Touch

Afloat, a groundbreaking gift delivery app, has just launched its services across the United States, marking a significant expansion from its initial rollout in select cities. Founded by Sarah-Allen Preston, Afloat aims to simplify and enhance the gift-giving experience by allowing users to shop locally and have gifts delivered on the same day.

Preston's inspiration for Afloat stemmed from a personal experience involving her newborn undergoing open heart surgery. Overwhelmed by the support of thoughtful gifts from loved ones, she envisioned a platform that could make immediate gift-giving accessible to everyone, regardless of their location.

Reflecting on her journey, Preston emphasized the emotional impact of receiving support during challenging times. "I remembered how people showed up for me and how cared and supported I felt," she shared, highlighting the core motivation behind the Afloat mission.

The app integrates the convenience of online shopping with the immediacy of local delivery, supporting small businesses by enabling customers to shop from a diverse range of partners—from bakeries and bookstores to florists and jewelry stores. Afloat manages the entire gift-giving process, including gift wrapping and personalized notes, ensuring a more meaningful experience than traditional online shopping.

Amidst growing consumer preferences for supporting local businesses, Afloat has already partnered with 100 stores, helping them increase their gifting revenue significantly. The company has also transitioned to a Software as a Service (SaaS) model, offering subscription plans tailored for businesses seeking to join the platform.

"We are excited to expand our reach without the need for traditional market launches," Preston noted, underscoring Afloat's commitment to accessibility and scalability through technology. The company plans to introduce consumer subscription tiers soon, enhancing user experience with premium features such as scheduled deliveries and real-time notifications.

With over 30,000 users and substantial backing from investors like Goodwater Capital and Techstars, Afloat has secured over $5 million in funding to drive its innovative approach to gift delivery and local business support.

Afloat's expansion across the U.S. signifies a pivotal step towards transforming the gift-giving landscape, bridging distances with heartfelt gestures and supporting local economies nationwide.