Barter is defined as a way of exchanging goods or services without using money. And this is the main idea behind the Facebook group Amicable Barter Community in Dubai – ABCD. Bartering is back in Dubai.
Innovative way of using Facebook for a good cause
The group was created on May 22, 2020 by a Filipino couple Lou Olvido-Parroco and Cesar Rocky Parroco for the Dubai community. Within a few days, the group has already attracted thousands of members. The group’s aim is to develop “a community” of people who amicably find value in ‘bartering’, or in offering and obtaining goods by direct exchange without the use of currency. In tough times like now, this is a place where you may find items you may need without spending your precious cash or another spending medium like credit cards.”
How to Join
The group has rules and guidelines on promoting fairness in bartering. At the same time being respectful while trading is one of their main criteria. Joining the group and bartering is absolutely FREE. When you visit the FB group, click Join. Once you get accepted into the group, you can post an item you want to be exchanged with another essential that you need. Then you wait for others to respond and if anyone is interested you can do the exchange of goods personally while maintaining discipline in social distancing and new norm practices of wearing masks and gloves.
Crisis bringing out the best ideas
In times of crisis, Filipinos really have a heart in finding creative ways to help one another. With the pandemic crossing all races and colors, we’ve learned that the group is also open to accept other nationalities who are interested to join here in Dubai. In an interview posted in KT, “To some, this may just be another online platform to make value of items they sifted out after decluttering – but, to others, especially to those who are financially tight after losing a job, the group can be a channel where they can obtain rice or grocery items to feed their family by bartering a favourite watch, bag or any other item in their possession,” explained Lou.
Successful barter trades
Items bartered successfully by private individuals are an old guitar in exchange for sacks of rice, branded dress in exchange for canned goods. There are also plants, beauty accessories, brand new shoes, bags, condenser mics to be exchanged for grocery items, face masks, or cat food.
To sum it all up, the group’s intention is really inspiring as it provides an avenue for many who are severely affected by no work no pay crisis to make a sustainable living.
Kudos Mr and Mrs Parroco for this wonderful initiative.
BXDNow wishes you all the best in your inspiring ways of helping the DXB community.
Stay safe.
