A tech startup company has launched its free mobile ecommerce platform that uses Facebook integrated technology to connect buyers and sellers in their local communities.

SellShed, available as a web platform and an app, takes advantage of the global trend of social trading and mobile e-commerce.

The app has had more than 4000 international downloads in its first week, with interest as far afield as Italy and Mongolia.

Sellers create a new item or service post using the app on their mobile phone, which is then added to the searchable browse stream in a Facebook style framework. Posts can also be added to a seller’s own Facebook page.

Peter Howell, SellShed MD, said SellShed uses the familiar format of an existing social media platform, therefore enabling users to intuitively understand the technology without the need to be tech savvy.

“We set out to create a platform for consumers to trade in a way that is natural to them. The app is designed to help people engage with others in their community -the way we used to.”

Howell said that the significant advantage of SellShed over other trading platforms is that it encourages users to trade with each other directly and does not restrict them to conducting transactions via the app.

Patents have been lodged to protect the unique functionality of the app internationally, including the ability to easily list ‘items wanted’ and be matched with potential suppliers, Howell said.

By removing any listing fees or commission structure, he said that it’s economically possible to provide additional features, such as allowing users to make swaps, or agree to part sale part swap transactions.

SellShed is free for buyers and sellers, with revenue derived from advertising, and possibly premium service features in the future.

Currently the company employs seven local staff, with plans to increase this to more than 20 as the app uptake expands internationally.

The company is also seeking investment to fund SellShed’s global expansion.