<ul><li>One year old quick commerce player <keyword id="12437554" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="zepto" source="Orion">Zepto</keyword> is making <keyword id="18635" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Amazon" source="Orion">Amazon</keyword> and Flipkart look like legacy companies with delivery times of more than a day.</li><li>Analysts believe that Amazon in India has a weaker value proposition in 'New' commerce, where Zepto &amp; Meesho dominate.</li><li>Zepto is looking to grab market share from Amazon in multiple categories it dominates.</li></ul>When Steve Jobs delivered his commencement speech at Stanford University in 2005, never would he have imagined that 15 years later two 17-year old boys would follow his footsteps and opt out of the coveted computer science programme at the same college to pursue their entrepreneurial dream. Aadit <keyword id="12442400" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="palicha" source="Orion">Palicha</keyword> and Kaivalya Vohra were crazy enough to believe in 2020 they could transform the online grocery delivery market in 2020 and they actually did it with Zepto, a quick commerce player that has created a new paradigm in online commerce. Valued at $900 mn, newbie Zepto is now challenging the Big Tech players on delivery time and formats. <br /><br />Despite building a soonicorn in less than a year, Palicha is almost always expecting to be dissed for being that “idiot kid.” He starts the interview by saying: “I have come to a point where I like it when people say something is bonkers, then I take particular interest in it. I was laughed at during interviews when I wanted to hire senior people. I used to care because I was young, but I got hammered so many times that I stopped caring.”<br />                  <div type="image" title="Aadit Palicha CEO and Co founder, Zepto" msid="94400605" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Aadit Palicha CEO and Co founder, Zepto&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />The story of Vohra and Palicha is as crazy it sounds – a couple of kids who started out to solve the problem of grocery delivery at the peak of the pandemic and ended up convincing angel investors and venture capital firms to bet $360 mn on their “crazy” idea. Welcome to the fantasy world of startups, where ideas rule the roost and age is just a number.<br /><br />In less than a year, Zepto is making Amazon and Flipkart look like legacy companies with delivery times of a day or more. Online commerce was born in the desktop era and while it has evolved in the last few years, it continues to deliver at the same pace as it did years ago, giving an opportunity to new commerce players like Zepto to solve problems with better formats and faster fulfillment. <br /><br />On-demand commerce is the latest to disrupt the online cart in India, dominated largely by the big players. A report by global investment bank Bernstein says that even though India is Amazon’s biggest and fastest growing overseas market: “It also faces immense competitive pressure in fast growing categories, a weaker value proposition in 'New' commerce, limited traction in tier 2/3 cities, and an unfavorable regulatory environment for outsiders.”<br /><br />The pandemic has helped germinate disruptive ideas and newbies are taking the game several notches higher by doing what nobody ever imagined – taking e-commerce beyond the big cities and delivery of fresh and groceries within minutes. <br /><br />Zepto is not content being a soonicorn, with an eye on profitability the Q-commerce player is already experimenting with private labels in food, high-margin categories like personal care and 24/7 deliveries of hot snacks and hot beverages. Confident of where the company is going, Palicha, who is the CEO, says the company is on track to clock one million orders a day with annualised sales of $1 bn by October 2023. <br /><br />Refusing to call it the next Amazon, Suvir Sujan, Co-founder and Managing Director of Nexus Venture Partners, says, “On demand commerce is a new paradigm in online delivery. I would love to say it is the next Amazon, but let’s first add more categories and get customers to come back for more. But what is more than groceries, time will tell.”<br /><br />                  <div type="image" title="Suvir Sujan, Co-founder and Managing Director of Nexus Venture Partners" msid="94400640" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Suvir Sujan, Co-founder and Managing Director of Nexus Venture Partners&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br /><strong>The Early Days of Zepto</strong><br /><br />At the headquarters of Zepto in suburban Mumbai, Palicha warmly greets his guests with a smile and Diet Coke from his mini refrigerator. There’s no nervous stammering, as one would expect from a high school graduate. Clearly two years is long enough time for a teenager to “grow up” and Palicha has come a long way from the days when he wore a green tee with Kirana Kart splayed all over it to deliver groceries to families in Mumbai’s suburban neighbourhood called Sher-e-Punjab. <br /><br />The journey of these two college dropouts began at the start of the pandemic when they decided to take a year out of Stanford and give their entrepreneurial dream a chance. <br />                  <div type="image" title="Kaivalya Vohra, Co founder and CIO, Zepto" msid="94400684" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Kaivalya Vohra, Co founder and CIO, Zepto&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br />The first battle was to come back to India from Dubai, where they both did their schooling at Gems World Academy. Jumping on to the Vande Bharat programme rolled out by the government to bring Indians back home during the pandemic, Vohra and Palicha boarded their flight back to Mumbai with a suitcase full of start-up ideas. Upon landing they decided to shack-up at Vohra’s family-run bed and breakfast in Andheri East as nobody wanted to rent an apartment to two teenage boys. <br /><br />In the early days, they picked up groceries from kirana stores and delivered them to their customers’ doorstep, which helped them understand route planning, time taken to deliver and order fulfillment issues. The biggest lesson, however, was that they could not make money by running errands. It was at this time that they realised that they had to own the entire fulfillment process, if they wanted to build a profitable business. Picking up groceries from kirana stores and delivering them would not yield them the requisite margins. Those were the early days and they started clocking 2000 orders a day through WhatsApp groups and the early rendition of their app called KiranaKart.<br /><br />                  <div type="image" title="Burn rate has come down 5X on a per-order basis" msid="94400735" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Burn rate has come down 5X on a per-order basis&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br /><strong>The Birth of Zepto</strong><br /><br />The model of quick commerce soon started taking shape in their heads, as their retention metrics showed that deliveries within a 1.8 km radius reached within minutes and that helped them retain customers. The other pain point that customers had was incorrect items in the cart. Vohra and Palicha started applying their minds on solving these problems to improve retention. <br /><br />Explains Palicha, “We had a model where we were experimenting with hyper local delivery and that got us 2000 orders a week. Kaivalya and I were delivering ourselves in the beginning. There was confusion over orders and erratic delivery timelines was an issue. Our first learning was if we had a lot of SKUs then it would help.” The second issue the duo encountered was around quality. “We looked at cohorts and found delivery time of over an hour was an issue,” adds Palicha.<br /><br />By this time, they were encouraged by friends to apply to YCombinator and once they got through the programme, they had the confidence they needed to take the plunge. Two years ago YCom gave the two boys $125,000 and some other angel investors put in the rest. They hit the sweet spot when they cut delivery time to below 20 minutes. “Customers started interacting frequently when we delivered in less time,” explains Palicha. That’s when they decided to scale. <br /><br /><strong>Nexus Partners Boards The Bus<br /></strong><br />Having worked on the early iterations of the app and having learned from their mistakes, Palicha and Vohra set out to attract the bigger investors for their startup. Armed with their learnings and coaching from YCombinator, the duo were ready to face a proper venture capital firm with their own unique quick commerce proposition.<br /><br />Recalling their early days, Kaivalya Vohra, who is the CTO of Zepto, says: “We decided to drop out of Stanford and work on a startup that would solve a consumer problem. We decided to build an app in 2020 called KiranaKart to deliver groceries from local stores to consumers. That’s where we got our early learning from.”<br /><br />Globally, quick commerce is an established business but the focus is largely consumer categories like ice, cigarettes and alcohol that typically people tend to order from Q-Commerce players. The need for fresh produce is met by organized retail players in developed markets with a store being present in every block almost. In India, however, both these markets are fragmented and quality is an issue. <br /><br />So when Suvir Sujan of Nexus Venture Partners told Palicha that their model of kirana store deliveries would not work, Palicha agreed. Recalls Sujan, “He recognised what was not working and was assessing it to change the model. When I talked about building different layers of the business, he was able to articulate it very well. They had the technology chops and also had the maturity to know that they would need a senior team to build the business.”<br /><br />Within days of receiving funding from Nexus, Palicha started interviewing senior professionals to build the team. Few wanted to work for a company that did not even have a name and was led by a 19-year old. Eventually, the team that Palicha has built is like him, people who are driven by the passion to solve problems and disrupt existing models. <br /><br />Says Amritanshu Nanda, the chief marketing officer of Zepto, “What excited me was the vision and passion of the two founders and the massive disruption we were aiming to create in the fresh and grocery segment by reducing delivery to under 30 minutes from one day. My first conversation with them ended at 11 pm at night and soon after i walked out and called family and discussed with them.” It helped that Nanda has always worked for start-ups and quirky founders since 2008.<br /><br />                  <div type="image" title="Amritanshu Nanda, the chief marketing officer of Zepto" msid="94400818" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Amritanshu Nanda, the chief marketing officer of Zepto&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br /><strong>The Business Of Quick Commerce</strong> <br />Quick commerce is more about using technology to solve problems rather than just cutting time to deliver the goods. A visit to Zepto’s dark store in Andheri East helps understand the business model better. Palicha says that the early days taught them how to delight customers. He explains: “We embodied this product and we felt it would be great. When we saw customers getting delighted, we felt it would be big. We became the product in a sense.” <br /><br />Zepto’s dark store in Andheri East resembles the trading floors of stock exchanges of yester years, where the outcry system was prevalent for buying and selling shares. At the entrance, packers awaiting their orders to be assigned to them stand, while at the other end are delivery partners who are waiting to pick up the deliveries assigned to them. Each time an order is assigned, a bell tolls and during peak demand it tolls endlessly. A big screen shows order numbers and time taken by each packer to finish packing the orders. As soon as an order is placed, packers are assigned on their handheld devices, which they pack in 76 seconds. <br /><br />Placing of products is an important factor, and since bread, eggs and poultry products are high demand categories they are placed right at the entrance. The handheld device reads the inventory each time a product flies off the shelf, so that the warehouse knows what needs to be replenished. <br /><br />Clearly, there’s a science behind delivering in 20 minutes and it only begins with route planning. In order to stock products that customers typically order, it is important to stock just enough products for which it is necessary to be able to predict demand. Sujan explains, “A lot of data analysis is required to predict demand in a hyperlocal environment. This data has to be fed back to the inventory management systems to ensure a high inventory turn. The whole value chain is important and for that demand prediction is important.”<br /><br />The dark stores are compact as the inventory velocity is high. Palicha and his team refuse to spell out the exact number of dark stores they have across India at the moment. <br /><br />Once Nexus was on board, putting the plan in place was easier and both Palicha and Vohra got down to hiring key talent, which entailed getting the best minds on board. Since delivering groceries was not profitable, they had to put in place the best supply chain experts to begin with. <br /><br />But hiring wasn’t easy as few senior professionals wanted to work for an 18 year old kid. Recalls Palicha, “When we told people what we wanted to build, people told us we had lost it. You can never deliver between 10- 20 minutes. If it was possible then why had nobody done it.” The first couple of months in early to mid 2021 was spent hiring the right talent.<br /><br />Zepto sources its entire fresh category from farmers and consumer products from companies. It is experimenting with high value food items like dry fruits and private labels. <br /><br />                  <div type="image" title="800% QoQ revenue growth" msid="94400980" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;800% QoQ revenue growth&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div><br /><strong>The Road Ahead</strong><br />Having cracked the delivery of groceries and fresh produce in the on-demand commerce space, Zepto will look at applying the model to multiple other categories that have traditionally been dominated by the likes of Amazon, which include pharmacy, fashion accessories, cafe, electronics and personal care. The company is looking to take market share from Amazon in multiple categories it dominates. All these categories can be delivered in much less time with assurance of quality with easy returns. Can the newbie build the same experience in multiple categories? Answers Palicha: “KV and I have the ambition to create the next generation of e-commerce in urban India.” Clearly, this story is far from over.<br /><br /><strong>SEE ALSO</strong><br /><strong><a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/ecommerce/news/online-e-commerce-player-meesho-is-the-new-crorepati-factory/articleshow/94399429.cms">Online e-commerce player Meesho is the new crorepati factory</a><br /></strong><a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/careers/news/moonlighting-right-or-wrong/articleshow/94400817.cms"><strong>Moonlighting – Right or Wrong?</strong></a>

The Zepto Boys: Competition that Amazon never saw coming

<ul class="summary-list"><li>After writing a <keyword id="27972" type="ENTERTAINMENT" weightage="60" keywordseo="guide">guide</keyword> to safely road-tripping during the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to take my own advice.</li><li>I made sure to sanitize everything and took care to minimize rest stops.</li><li>It wasn't that different from normal road-tripping, you just have to get into the right headspace.</li></ul><p>You shouldn't be in the business of giving away advice if you aren't prepared to take it yourself, which is why I went on a road trip recently to see how everything would play out. </p><p>In June, I wrote about <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-road-trip-safely-during-coronavirus-checklist-2020-6">the best tips and practices you should take</a> to keep yourself safe if you wanted to take a road trip this summer. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, most people probably don't feel safe flying right now, so they're turning to cars to get out of the house for a change of scenery. </p><p>I felt the same urge. The city, whose charm for me was already rapidly diminishing even before the virus, is even less appealing right now. The gyms are all closed and with the temperature steadily rising, I saw no reason to stay here any longer. </p><h2>We figured out overnight accommodations in advance</h2><p>Luckily, my boyfriend's family is from Vermont and we were invited to stay there for a few days. Vermont is just far enough that we'd feel like we really "got away" from it all. And the house would be vacant for a few days before we'd arrive, thus satisfying Item Five of my advice column, which is "Sanitize your overnight accommodations." </p><p><div type="image" title="Vermont" height="1500" width="2000" msid="76876263" hostid="261"></div></p><p>The <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.html">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that</a> "transmission of <keyword id="8604864" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="novel-coronavirus">novel coronavirus</keyword> to persons from surfaces contaminated with the virus has not been documented."</p><p>Despite this, though, upon our arrival, we gave frequently touched surfaces — door knobs, light switches, desks, toilets, sinks, faucets, refrigerator handles — a wipe down.</p><h2>Sanitize everything with the "zone" method</h2><p>But even before we left, we were <keyword id="6358816" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="car">car</keyword>eful. The way I broke it all down in my head was that there were three clean "zones" we would occupy: our apartment, the car, and the house. Within those zones, we wouldn't need to worry about masks and were free to eat and touch our faces. Anything traveling between those three zones would need to be disinfected upon entering.</p><p>So we wiped down the luggage cart we used to move all our stuff down from the apartment and also wiped the car's door handles, steering wheel, key, and seat adjustment switches down after collecting it from the garage attendant. </p><h2>Keep the hand sanitizer and wipes handy</h2><p>The more than five-hour drive up from Brooklyn was largely uneventful. We made sure to eat dinner and use the bathroom before we left in an effort to reduce visits to rest stops. But just in case we did, we kept the hand sanitizer, our masks, and all the sanitizing wipes within easy reach. We also packed big bottles of water and a bunch of food if anyone wanted a snack.</p><p><div type="image" title="hand sanitizer" height="2506" width="3759" msid="76876267" hostid="261"></div></p><p>We also kept to the speed limit. I don't speed, but knowing that others might, I always took note of who and what was around me at all times. </p><p>Thankfully, the Aviator SUV that Lincoln loaned me (review to come) had quite a big fuel tank, so I didn't actually need to fill up again until it was time to come back. </p><h2>Getting gas</h2><p>I stopped at a gas station in Vermont and used a sanitizing wipe to wipe down the gas pump, credit card machine, and touchscreen before pumping gas.</p><p><div type="image" title="Getting gas" height="1125" width="2000" msid="76876272" hostid="261"></div></p><p>I still pushed buttons with the wipe where I could. They are all frequently touched spots.</p><p><div type="image" title="pumping gas" height="1125" width="2000" msid="76876275" hostid="261"></div></p><p>Once I finished pumping, I also wiped down my credit card before returning it to my wallet and used hand sanitizer. </p><p><div type="image" title="pumping gas" height="1125" width="2000" msid="76876278" hostid="261"></div></p><h2>There was traffic</h2><p>What little traffic there was on the way up completely reversed on the way down. </p><p>On Sunday, July 5, it seemed like everyone in the entire world was <keyword id="30692" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="driving">driving</keyword> southbound on New York Interstate 87. The speed limit on that road is 65 mph. The fastest I went once we passed Lake George was maybe 55 mph. For as far as the eye could see, miles and miles of traffic glittered in the hazy summer sun. What should have been a breezy 5.5-hour trip quickly turned into a seven-hour odyssey.</p><p>I've driven back to the city during this holiday weekend before and I don't quite remember it ever being that bad. I did notice an uptick in campers and RVs, however, lending credence to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/rv-sales-skyrocketing-as-lockdown-ends-2020-6">reports of demand for mobile homes skyrocketing during the pandemic</a>.</p><h2>Rest stop</h2><p><div type="image" title="Starbucks coffee rest stop" height="1306" width="2000" msid="76876283" hostid="261"></div></p><p>We made one stop while on I-87 to use the bathroom. Everyone inside was dutifully wearing masks, except for one woman who infuriatingly kept hers around her chin.</p><p>A reminder to all: a mask around your chin is about as effective as wearing a bicycle helmet around your neck — which is to say, completely useless. I made sure to wash my hands well before getting back into the car.</p><h2>Keep your masks on</h2><p>I breathed a sigh of relief when I crossed the New Jersey border. Not because this is where I'm from and I was relieved to be back among my people, but because in New Jersey, you don't pump your own gas. </p><p><div type="image" title="gas station" height="1871" width="3500" msid="76876285" hostid="261"></div>With my mask on, I rolled my window down and handed my credit card over to the gas station attendant, who was also wearing a mask. While we waited for the tank to fill, my boyfriend unloaded some snacks for us to share from one of the bags of groceries in the trunk.</p><p>There was no need to visit the mini-mart, but I noticed, with immediate fury, a group of five people come out of the mini-mart, clutching their purchases, and without the hint of a mask in sight. They took their time getting back into their car, which they'd inconveniently parked at a gas pump even though they were not buying gas.</p><p>After the attendant handed me my card back, I also wiped it down with a sanitizing wipe. </p><p>Once we returned to our apartment building, we put our masks back on, disinfected the luggage cart, and brought everything back upstairs. </p><h2>Be defensive</h2><p>All in all, nothing was really too different than what we'd normally do. But there was a tangible sense of safety and security while inside the car. It came from knowing that we'd done a thorough job of disinfecting both everything that came into the car and the inside of the car itself in order to relax on the road. </p><p>Driving, it was business as normal. I just treated high-trafficked situations outside of the car like lava — I didn't touch it or get close to it. Is this obsessive and bordering on paranoia? Absolutely! But as there is still much we don't know about this virus, I'm perfectly willing to take as many precautions as possible in order to stay safe.</p><p>In fact, a lesson I was taught in driver's ed while in high school applies beautifully here: you should always drive defensively and always watch out for the other people. Even if you are the best driver in the world, they can still cause problems.</p>

8 ways I'm road tripping differently in the age of coronavirus

<ul class="summary-list"><li>We renovated a 1989 Jayco <a href="https://www.insider.com/first-long-rv-trip-mistakes-things-know-before-going-california-oregon-2022">pop-up camper</a> we found on Facebook Marketplace for $700.</li><li>The paperwork to buy and register the vehicle in our name was more complicated than we expected.</li></ul><p>After seeing how our neighbor's homemade <keyword id="12527023" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="camper" source="Orion">camper</keyword>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lildreamercamper/">Lil' Dreamer</a>, came out, my partner, Amanda, and I were inspired to find our own.</p><p>Campers vary drastically in both size and price but we decided after minimal research that we wanted one around 20 feet that'd be <a href="https://www.insider.com/van-renovation-information-to-know-before-starting-2021-7">easy to maintain</a>.</p><p>So when we found a 1989 Jayco for $700 online, we hopped on the opportunity, despite having <a href="https://www.insider.com/what-to-know-before-traveling-in-a-camper-van-tips">little-to-no experience with pop-up campers</a>.</p><p>Here are the 10 things that surprised us most about the entire process.</p><h2>I was surprised we managed to get this camper in the first place </h2><div type="image" title="An old camper with a white exterior with brown clothe before renovations" height="3024" width="4032" msid="87743606" hostid="261"></div><p>When a <a href="https://www.insider.com/rv-information-you-should-know-before-buying-secondhand">road-ready camper</a> is listed at an affordable price on an online marketplace, it's typically swarmed with inquiries. Unless you are one of the first three to respond, the chances of scheduling a meeting time are slim.</p><p>One evening, I saw a 1989 Jayco pop-up camper on Facebook Marketplace for $700. Although we didn't really have concrete plans to buy a camper, I figured it was worth reaching out about.</p><p>I sent a message asking if the camper was still available and if there were a lot of inquiries. Within 10 minutes, the seller responded that she had over 10 requests, but I was second in line. </p><p>Five minutes later, she shared that the first person was unable to pick it up, so we exchanged info and set a time for the next morning. Fortunately, the seller was located less than 10 minutes away from our house. </p><p>It can almost feel like a lottery when you can get a really good deal for something, especially when the seller trusts that you will make the scheduled time instead of following a first-come-first-serve basis.</p><h2>The camper was actually in decent condition</h2><div type="image" title="The neutral-colored interior of the pop-up camper with seat benches and cabinets" height="3024" width="4032" msid="87743607" hostid="261"></div><p>Campers listed at this price are <a href="https://www.insider.com/van-renovation-information-to-know-before-starting-2021-7">typically gutted or have major damage</a> from a water leak but that wasn't the case with this one.</p><p>I researched what to expect from the camper with Google images and YouTube. I found floor plans, basic set-up guides, and possible problems to look out for. </p><p>When we checked out the camper, everything was intact, even a lot of its 1989 personality. The roof's metal coating had a mid-tone fade, the paint was dulled, and the vinyl graphics were cracked. </p><p>But after just 10 minutes of inspection, we were ready to make the transaction. </p><h2>The paperwork and buying process was complicated </h2><div type="image" title="White and brown renovated pop-up camper out in the dessert, surrounded by sand and blue skies" height="2048" width="2731" msid="87743608" hostid="261"></div><p>When buying something with wheels that'll likely have a title, I typically bring several generic bill-of-sale forms, pens, and registration paperwork in case I need a signature from the previous owner.</p><p>But the seller brought us a binder with paperwork and documents, including the original receipts dated over 10 years ago from an RV dealership and a title with the previous owner's name.</p><p>During the transaction, she explained she wasn't the registered owner, only a middle woman. This would normally be <a href="https://www.insider.com/rv-renovation-what-its-really-like-gross-expensive-photos-2021-5">a red flag</a>, as I usually like to buy something from the registered owner, but I felt comfortable working it out in this case. Plus the seller was able to help me get connected to the owner.</p><p>Although we wouldn't usually jump through these hoops, we figured that worst-case scenario, we'll have a camper that'll require more paperwork and trips to the registration office to get the title under our names, which is not a step you should overlook.</p><p>Not registering the title is like buying an Apple device with a locked iCloud account. It helps make the next ownership transfer easier, plus having proper documentation is important if you get into an accident or pulled over.</p><p>I was eventually able to go to the owner's house and have him sign the proper documents we needed to transfer ownership, like the bill of sale, the title, and a state-issued registration-transfer form. </p><h2>Our home vacuum and washing machine made a pretty big difference</h2><div type="image" title="The inside of the camper with wood cabinets and a plaid cushion" height="3024" width="4032" msid="87743609" hostid="261"></div><p>When we got back, we immediately got to cleaning. Assessing the smells and visuals, we realistically considered the <a href="https://www.insider.com/advice-for-buying-and-fixing-up-a-used-van">best ways to restore the camper</a> to its fullest potential without tearing everything apart. </p><p>We started by vacuuming all of the dirt and debris inside, plus cleaning out a few retired wasp nests and the signs of a mouse that used to live in there. It was nothing a basic industrial vacuum couldn't handle.</p><p>Every cushion still had its original, plaid upholstery, so we unzipped and disassembled all four rectangular cushions and washed the covers, which had the musty odor of a jacket that's been in a closet for too long. </p><div type="image" title="Interior of the renovated camper, with orange cushions and black and white tiles" height="3024" width="4032" msid="87743610" hostid="261"></div><p>There's only so much you can do with 25-year-old cushion covers without damaging them, but the washing machine restored them to about 90%. Amanda eventually created new covers to give the bench cushions a livelier look. </p><p>We also sprayed diluted detergent on the actual cushions and let them bake in the sun.</p><h2>Renovations can be expensive, but we were able to find some replacement parts online and at Goodwill</h2><div type="image" title="On the left, someone painting the cabinet around a mini fridge. On the right, someone fixing a sink faucet" height="900" width="1200" msid="87743692" hostid="261"></div><p>The camper's sink faucet was too old — they're vulnerable to breaking since the sink assembly is constantly flipped over for storage when in transit — but we were able to <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-i-save-money-on-secondhand-rv-repairs-2021-6">find a comparable replacement online</a>.</p><p>And when we removed the wood-vinyl box we suspected was a refrigerator, we discovered it was actually an old icebox. We ended up replacing it with a mini-fridge I had previously purchased from Goodwill for $20.</p><p>We had to slightly modify the original cabinet's sides, but luckily the dimensions were similar enough, and the power cord fed through a small compartment that allowed us to connect it to a basic 110-volt plug. </p><h2>We were able to patch the canvas instead of replacing it</h2><div type="image" title="Hands patching up a brown exterior cloth of a camper van" height="1082" width="1440" msid="87743693" hostid="261"></div><p>The exterior had some outdoor algae and other debris on it.</p><p>We had learned early on that the water pressure from a power washer would actually penetrate and tear through the fabric of canvas. Though, this also allowed us to test for leaks.</p><p>We were able to fix up the top with an RV roof sealer that cured fairly fast and was similar to a thick paint.</p><p>The canvas was old and had a few rips in several spots, but instead of replacing it, we used an awl and tried to sew some of the rips as well as create reinforced patches for certain areas. We also added a water-repellent spray over it.</p><h2>We didn't expect our <keyword id="12116164" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="renovation" source="Orion">renovation</keyword> process to get so much online attention </h2><div type="image" title="The camper mid-reno, with some of the old wood and cushions but with black and white tile and some green cabinetry" height="3024" width="4032" msid="87743694" hostid="261"></div><p>In the midst of our progress, Amanda made a <keyword id="11894125" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="tiktok" source="Orion">TikTok</keyword> to share with her friends. Initially, her account had less than 100 followers, and she'd normally only get about 100 views per video. </p><p>But the first camper-progress video she uploaded got an abnormally <a href="https://www.insider.com/inside-alabama-sorority-mansion-tiktok-tour-2021-8">high number of views</a> — 10,000 in the first evening.</p><p>It was like a game. We would check back in and guess the view count that kept growing.</p><p>Over the next 24 hours, the video had over 100,000 views and her account had amassed close to 8,000 followers.</p><p>Viewers asked lots of great questions, gave helpful feedback and advice (like explaining why it's dangerous to paint a propane tank black), and really liked that we were restoring an old camper.</p><p>We've since posted other videos, and the original TikTok now has over 3 million views.</p><h2>Our homeowners' association has caused us some trouble, but everything is going well so far </h2><div type="image" title="The pop-up camper outside of a house in a residential neighborhood while down" height="2274" width="3024" msid="87743695" hostid="261"></div><p>As much as <a href="https://www.insider.com/woman-selling-her-nyc-wedding-at-discount-on-tiktok-2021-4">TikTok</a>, our community, and we enjoyed the camper, our neighborhood HOA wasn't a huge fan.</p><p>We would get notices from the homeowners association saying to "remove it from public view" or move it to the side of our house until we eventually got fines to order it "out of public view."</p><p>After checking our cameras, we found out a contracted ordinance officer in an unmarked vehicle would patrol our neighborhood every two to three weeks for abnormal things, like campers, cars in yards, overgrown lawns, or items over fence lines.</p><div type="image" title="Paper work laid out on a wooden table" height="3024" width="4032" msid="87743697" hostid="261"></div><p>Within two months, we racked up over $300 in fines, but with some calm negotiations with the HOA manager, they were waived after we moved our camper out of sight.</p><p>For now, it sits in our backyard, "out of public view," while we work on cosmetics tweaks and <a href="https://www.insider.com/best-road-trips-in-the-world-2018-7">plan our next trip</a>.</p>

My partner and I renovated a $700 pop-up camper we found online. Here are 10 things that surprised us most.

<p class="financial-disclaimer"><i>When you buy through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. <a href="https://www.insider-inc.com/commerce-on-insider-inc/">Learn more.</a></i></p><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"></a></p><ul class="summary-list"><li>The <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">Ezpz Happy Mat</a> and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Happy Bowl</a> are silicone placemats with built-in plates and bowls that are designed for toddlers and preschool-age children.</li><li>The placemats are designed to stick to the table using suction.</li><li>Toddlers cannot pull on the plate or bowl to remove the mat.</li></ul>Table of Contents<p>If I had to describe in one word what it's like at mealtime with a <keyword id="6358804" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="toddler">toddler</keyword>, I would say "messy." <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/yumble-kids-meal-delivery-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Food</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/munchkin-raise-toddler-fork-spoon-set" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">utensils</a>, plates, bowls, and cups are constantly being dropped (or thrown) onto the floor, and the table is usually covered in more food than makes it into the toddler's mouth. </p><p>When Ezpz sent me the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Happy Mat</a> and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Happy Bowl</a> to test, I was intrigued to see how they would perform since they're an all-in-one concept with the plate or bowl attached to the mat. The design is ideal for toddlers and preschoolers 24 months and older.</p><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fm%2F" target="_blank" rel="nofollow nofollow noopener sponsored sponsored">Ezpz</a>, the brand that designs developmentally appropriate products to make mealtime less about mess, is one I've known about since my now-2-year-old son started solids. We've used the brand's <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fmini-mat%3F_pos%3D1%26_sid%3D25b6d708f%26_ss%3Dr%3Dr" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Mini Mat</a> for over a year now, although he quickly figured out how to pull it off of the table. </p><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"><div type="image" title="Ezpz Bowl Lifestyle" height="900" width="1200" msid="75605351" hostid="261"></div></a></p><h2>The materials and design of the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Ezpz Happy Mat</a> and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Happy Bowl</a></h2><p>The <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Happy Mat</a>, the brand's flagship product, is an all-in-one placemat and plate that attaches to the table through suction. The <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Happy Bowl</a> is a placemat-and-bowl-in-one that also has a suction feature. Both are available in seven colors. The Happy Mat measures at 15 inches by 10 inches, while the Happy Bowl measures at 10.25 inches by 8.75 inches. </p><p>The products are both made out of 100% toxin-free silicone and can be stacked and carried with food inside the bowl or plate. The <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Happy Mat</a> is designed with three compartments — one for a main entree and two smaller ones for sides, while the Happy Bowl is designed with one main bowl, ideal for meals such as cereal, oatmeal, pasta, or soup. The placemats on both products are designed to catch the mess from eating. </p><p>In terms of the suction feature, Ezpz says that the mat and bowl can be pulled off the table by the edges of the placemat, but not by pulling the actual bowl or plate. Both products are dishwasher safe and are safe in the oven and microwave up to 350 degrees. Like with other mealtime-related products for children, it's recommended to wash before first use. </p><h2>How the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Happy Mat</a> and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Happy Bowl</a> performed</h2><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"><div type="image" title="Ezpz Mat Lifestlye 2" height="900" width="1200" msid="75605356" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>Excited to see how these <em>really</em> worked, I tested both products out over the course of a few weeks during different meals.</p><p>The first issue I faced was that since we have a round kitchen table, the edge of both mats didn't line up against the edge of our table, leaving some space to catch fallen food. It seems best to use these if you have a straight edge table. However, our kitchen table recently became my husband's work-from-home desk, so we replaced it with a regular 6-foot folding table and now the mats fit perfectly. </p><p>My son really loved <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">the mat</a> and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">the bowl</a>; he was so excited to see one hit the table during each meal. I think, given its size in contrast to his usual small toddler plate and bowl, it seemed novel and fun to him. Lately, he has been making lovely music by banging his fork and spoon on the table, so the silicone placemat is a nice buffer — a win for me and my husband. I never had an issue with my son pulling the bowl or mat off of the table, either. </p><p>In terms of the mess, food stayed on the placemat and didn't hit the table. The space for food on both the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Happy Mat</a> and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Happy Bowl</a> is large enough for each meal. It was easy for my son to get food out of each compartment with his fork or spoon. </p><h2>The cons</h2><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored"><div type="image" title="Ezpz Bowl top view" height="900" width="1200" msid="75605358" hostid="261"></div></a></p><p>Overall, these products performed great, especially during mealtime. However, they aren't an ideal fit for round tables as there will be added distance between the mat and your child. </p><p>These are a bit cumbersome to hand-wash since they are pretty big mats. They also require a good amount of storage space in cabinets to keep them laid nice and flat. I don't have enough space, so I store ours on top of our refrigerator.</p><h2>The bottom line</h2><p>All things considered, I was pleased with the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-mat-mat" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Ezpz Happy Mat</a> and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=35871X943606&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fezpzfun.com%2Fproducts%2Fhappy-bowlbowl" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Happy Bowl</a>. They did exactly what they're designed to do, and I was happy I didn't have to clean a plate <em>and</em> the table after every meal. If your child is at the age where they've started solids and are beginning to eat full meals, these mats are worth considering. Just measure your table at home to make sure they will fit.</p><p><strong>Pros:</strong> Placemat catches mess, suction makes it difficult for child to pull off table, available in a nice assortment of colors, made of silicone so it can't break</p><p><strong>Cons:</strong> Doesn't fit as well with round table, difficult to hand-wash due to its size, requires a good amount of storage space </p>

These placemats with built-in bowls make dinnertime with my toddler a lot less messy — they use suction to latch onto the table to keep everything in place

<p class="source"><span>Crystal Cox/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">Scoop by Walmart is an affordable line of on-trend pieces.</p><ul class="summary-list"><li>In its heydey, <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fcp%2F5800740" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Scoop</a> was an iconic New York City boutique. The store closed its doors a few years ago but is now back as a Walmart-exclusive brand. </li><li>Though an unlikely match on the surface, the partnership marks a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/walmart-and-amazon-go-head-to-head-on-fashion-2018-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">continued effort by Walmart</a> to compete in the fashion space. </li><li>A few women on the Insider Picks team tried the <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fcp%2F5800740" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Scoop x Walmart</a> line for ourselves. We were generally impressed with the trendy pieces, though we admit they're not the highest quality. You can find all of our thoughts below. </li></ul><p>You can buy pretty much anything at Walmart - from refrigerators to Tylenol, batteries to bikes. Walmart has never really been a big destination for fashion, but as <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/walmart-and-amazon-go-head-to-head-on-fashion-2018-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amazon moves in to dominate the space</a>, Walmart is partnering with new brands, revamping its shopping experience, and leaning into trends to create something that attracts fashion-lovers. Now, it's getting one step closer. </p><p>You may remember Scoop, the high-end New York City boutique that made its way into plenty a fashion magazine in the early 2000's. Scoop closed its doors in 2016, but recently relaunched as an <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fcp%2F5800740" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">exclusive collection at Walmart</a>. </p><p>When we got wind of this news, we knew we had to get our hands on the line. Scoop's pulse on the latest trends and Walmart's commitment to affordable prices seem like a match made in heaven for any fashion-forward shopper on a budget. The collection is stocked with of-the-moment styles. You'll find a mix of clothing, shoes, handbags, and other accessories. You can shop by category, occasion, or trend. Right now, <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fcp%2F5800740" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Scoop</a> has three curated collections: <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fbrowse%2F5438_3317124_5800740_7709573_5137282" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Alpine Chic</a>, <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fbrowse%2F5438_3317124_5800740_7709573_2828207" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">80's Glam</a>, and <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fbrowse%2Fclothing%2Fscoop-animal-instinct%2F5438_3317124_5800740_7709573_6795879" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Wild at Heart</a>. The best part is, almost all of the pieces are less than $100. </p><p>We decided to try a few pieces to see how they looked in person, how they felt, and how they hold up over time. The selection changes frequently, so some of the styles we tried may be sold out now. For those pieces, we've provided similar alternatives. Find our thoughts on the Scoop at Walmart line below, or <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fcp%2F5800740" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">get straight to shopping here</a>.</p><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Graphic-Crewneck-Sweatshirt-Black-Stars-Women-s%2F620683201" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><p class="source"><span>Crystal Cox/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">Ciannah in the Graphic Crewneck Sweatshirt, $12.</p><h3><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Graphic-Crewneck-Sweatshirt-Black-Stars-Women-s%2F620683201" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Graphic Crewneck Sweatshirt Black Stars, $11.97 (originally $19.95)</a> [You save $7.98]</h3><p>Over the past year or so I've become a big fan of crewneck sweatshirts. I also really love star patterns on just about everything, so I was really excited to wear this. I did expect the material of this sweatshirt to be warm and on the thicker side, but the material is pretty thin, which was a bit disappointing. I definitely wasn't expecting designer-quality fashion from this collection, but I've still worn it multiple times as it's easy to throw on and is loose and comfortable. <strong>- Ciannah Gin, Insider Picks editorial fellow</strong></p><p><strong>This sweatshirt is currently sold out, but you can find a <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Graphic-Crewneck-Sweatshirt-Women-s%2F820260107" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">similar one here</a>. </strong></p><p><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Slouchy-V-Neck-Sweater-Women-s%2F167625720" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"><strong></strong></a></p><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Slouchy-V-Neck-Sweater-Women-s%2F167625720" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"><strong><p class="source"><span>Crystal Cox/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">Mara in the Slouchy V-Neck Sweater, $17.</p></strong></a><h3><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Slouchy-V-Neck-Sweater-Women-s%2F167625720" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Slouchy V-Neck Sweater, $17.37 (originally $28.95)</a> [You save $11.58]</h3><p>Walmart describes this as the ultimate cozy 24-7 Sweater, and they're not far off. It's very soft to the touch, has a loose fit (I found myself adjusting it a couple of times from slipping down my shoulders) and a low but tasteful cut, and is low-maintenance by virtue of machine-washability. So, it's a good sweater for a reasonable price. Having said that, I think Scoop at Walmart is probably at its best value for the standouts like the dress Remi got. And, in general, I try to opt to spend a little bit more and buy fewer basics in favor of companies with more transparent business models (<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/everlane-review-best-styles-for-men-and-women-2018-5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Everlane</a> is my most frequent stop). If that's not in the budget, or it's not a main shopping concern of yours, then you'll still be getting a nice, cozy sweater here.<strong>- Mara Leighton, Insider Picks reporter</strong></p><p><strong>Sold out in Chartreuse, but available in <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Slouchy-V-Neck-Sweater-Women-s%2F167625720" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">other colors here</a>. </strong></p><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Ruched-Sleeve-Ruffle-Faux-Wrap-Mini-Dress-Dot-Print-Women-s%2F187617712http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Ruched-Sleeve-Ruffle-Faux-Wrap-Mini-Dress-Dot-Print-Women-s%2F187617712" target="_blank" rel="nofollow nofollow noopener"></a><p class="source"><span>Crystal Cox/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">Remi in the Ruched Sleeve Faux Wrap Mini Dress, $20.</p><h3><strong><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Slouchy-Turtleneck-Sweater-Women-s%2F456917138" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Slouchy Turtleneck Sweater, $17.37 (originally $28.95)</a> [You save $11.58]</strong></h3><h3><strong><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Ruched-Sleeve-Ruffle-Faux-Wrap-Mini-Dress-Dot-Print-Women-s%2F187617712" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Ruched Sleeve Ruffle Faux Wrap Mini Dress, $19.77 (originally $32.95)</a> [You save $13.18]</strong></h3><p>A comfy sweater that goes with everything and a good dress that works for any occasion, formal or casual, are two of my closet essentials. This winter, I've surprisingly found both of those pieces from the Scoop collection at Walmart. The slouchy sweater looks so cute tucked into high-waisted jeans or a skirt. The knit is super soft and almost feels silky. It's not too thick, but it's definitely warm enough for a cold day, especially with the cozy turtleneck. <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Slouchy-Turtleneck-Sweater-Women-s%2F456917138" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">The sweater</a> did catch a small rip on the seam at the shoulder, but it's one that'll be easy to sew up. I wear this when I want to stay warm but still look put together, which is often during winter in New York City. </p><p>The <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Ruched-Sleeve-Ruffle-Faux-Wrap-Mini-Dress-Dot-Print-Women-s%2F187617712" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">polka dot wrap dress</a> was the piece I was most excited about and it lived up to the hype. I've worn this to brunches, parties, and work, and every time I've been given multiple compliments. People are floored when they find out this dress is from Walmart. With shirred sleeves and a ruffled hem, the fit is so flattering. It's surprisingly comfortable, too. The black and white polka dot pattern is fun but still neutral enough for everyday wear and multiple outfit combinations. Everyone needs a versatile dress like this, and at less than $20, this is a great choice.  <strong>- Remi Rosmarin, Insider Picks reporter</strong></p><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Patch-Pocket-Duster-Sweater-Women-s%2F570488847" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><p class="source"><span>Connie Chen/Business Insider</span></p><p class="caption">Connie in the Patch Pocket Duster Sweater, $21.</p><h3><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Patch-Pocket-Duster-Sweater-Women-s%2F570488847" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Patch Pocket Duster Sweater in Vicuna, $20.97 (originally $34.95)</a> [You save $13.98]</h3><p>This long and slouchy cardigan is my go-to office sweater. It's not the <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Patch-Pocket-Duster-Sweater-Women-s%2F570488847" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">softest sweater</a> I've ever owned, but it's certainly cozy enough and it helps me warm up without overheating. The stretchy and comfortable piece layers well over a tank top or T-shirt. Since it clings somewhat tightly to the arms, it might be a little difficult to wear over long-sleeved shirts, so I would size up if you want a more oversized fit. <strong>- Connie Chen, Insider Picks reporter</strong></p><p><strong>Sold out in Vicuna, but available in other <a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FScoop-Patch-Pocket-Duster-Sweater-Women-s%2F570488847" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">colors here</a>. </strong></p><h2>Bottom Line</h2><p>Ultimately, the Scoop Walmart line is a great value. But, at budget prices, you can't expect the same fit and fabric quality you'd find at more expensive retailers. That definitely showed as many of us had different experiences with how products fit and felt on us. If what you're looking for are trendy pieces that won't break the bank, the Scoop collection at Walmart is definitely worth checking out. </p><h3><a href="http://goto.walmart.com/c/196318/565706/9383?veh=aff&amp;sourceid=imp_000011112222333344&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fcp%2Fscoop%2F5800740" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Shop the entire Scoop collection at Walmart here</a></h3><p class="tagline"><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/intelligence/future-of-retail?IR=T&amp;itm_source=businessinsider&amp;itm_medium=ctgr_bii&amp;itm_term=ctgr_leadgen&amp;itm_content=walmart&amp;itm_campaign=future-of-retail-2"></a></p>

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<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span>AP</span></p><p class="caption">JCPenney is kicking off its Black Friday sales at 3 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.</p></div><p></p></div></div>JCPenney is <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/jcpenney-black-friday-store-hours-2016-11">kicking off its Black Friday</a> sales at 3 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, making it one of the first department stores to open on the holiday.</p><p>The opening time gives it a two-hour head start on Macy's and a three-hour head start on Walmart, Target, Sears, and Kohl's.</p><p>To get customers to visit its stores, JCPenney will be handing out coupons to hundreds of customers who are the first through the doors on Thanksgiving and Black Friday that will offer between $10 and $500 off purchases. Stores will open at 6 a.m. on Black Friday.</p><p>The company's Black Friday sales will be available online starting at midnight on November 23, the day before Thanksgiving.</p><p>JCPenney is also offering 24-hour "pre-Black Friday" deals online and in stores until November 19. Then on November 20-22, the company will offer 24 daily deals on its website, ahead of the launch of its official Black Friday sale.</p><p>Here's a list of some of JCPenney's <a href="http://www.jcp.com/blackfriday" target="_blank">Black Friday deals</a>:</p><ul type="disc"><li><div><a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fmixit-essentials-touch-tech-gloves%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dpp5007520300%26catId%3DSearchResults%26searchTerm%3DMixi%2520touch%2520tech%2520gloves" target="_blank">$1.99 <strong>Mixit(TM)</strong> touch tech gloves</a></div></li><li><div>$2.99 <strong>Home Expressions(TM)</strong> 100 percent cotton towel or <strong>JCPenney Home(TM)</strong> classic standard/queen pillow</div></li><li><div>$4.99 <strong>Disney Collection</strong> mini plush or select <strong>Paw Patrol</strong> toys </div></li><li><div>$5.99 select <strong>Shopkins(TM)</strong> or <strong>Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle</strong> toys</div></li><li><div>$7.99 <strong>cooks (TM)</strong> kitchen electrics (after $12 mail in rebate)</div></li><li><div><a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Ftzumi-dream-vision-virtual-reality-headset%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dppr5007117204%26catId%3DWebIds%26searchTerm%3Dtzumi%2520dream%2520vision%2520virtual%2520reality%2520headset" target="_blank">$9.99 <strong>Tzumi(TM)</strong> dream vision virtual reality headset</a></div></li><li><div>$14.99 Women's pajama sets</div></li><li><div>$19.99 select Women's boots</div></li><li><div>$20 1/10 CT. T.W. diamond studs in sterling silver or <a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fliz-claiborne-phone-charging-wallet%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dpp5007890169" target="_blank"><strong>Liz Claiborne</strong> charging pouch</a></div></li><li><div>$29<a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fst-john-s-bay-faux-fur-trim-puffer-coat%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dpp5007750244%26catId%3DSearchResults%26searchTerm%3Dwomens%2520st%2520johns%2520bay%26N%3D4294289192" target="_blank"> Women's (with faux fur trim)</a> or Men's <strong>St. John's Bay(TM)</strong> puffer coat</div></li><li><div>$29.99 <a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fsky-rider-drone-with-camera%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dpp5007710017%26catId%3DWebIds%26searchTerm%3Dsky%2520rider%2520drone%2520with%2520camera" target="_blank"><strong>Sky Rider</strong> drone with camera</a> or <strong>Razor</strong> kick scooter</div></li><li><div>$36.99 Men's <strong>Levi's</strong> 501 original core jeans</div></li><li><div><a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fprotocol-hamilton-5-pc-spinner-luggage-set%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dppr5007124981%26catId%3DWebIds%26searchTerm%3D5%2520pc%2520Protocol%2520Hamilton%2520luggage%2520set" target="_blank">$39.99 5-pc <strong>Protocol</strong> Hamilton luggage set</a></div></li><li><div>$59.99 <strong>CHI</strong> flat iron</div></li><li><div>$59.99 <strong>NutriBullet</strong> blender</div></li><li><div><a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fsharper-image-51-channel-home-theater-sound-system-with-bluetooth-subwoofer-and-sound-bar%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dppr5007120178%26catId%3DWebIds%26searchTerm%3Dsharper%2520image%252051%2520channel%2520bluetooth%2520home%2520theater%2520system" target="_blank">$79 <strong>Sharper Image</strong> 5.1 channel bluetooth home theater system</a></div></li><li><div>$88 men's or women's <strong>Citizen</strong>, <strong>Casio,</strong> <strong>Seiko</strong> or <strong>Invicta</strong> watches</div></li><li><div><a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fkeurig-k55-single-serve-coffee-maker%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dpp5006750209%26catId%3DWebIds%26searchTerm%3DKeurig%2520K55%2520Brewer" target="_blank">$89.99 <strong>Keurig</strong> K55 brewer</a></div></li><li><div>$279.99 <strong>KitchenAid</strong> artisan 5-qt. stand mixer (after $50 mail in rebate)</div></li><li><div>$293 each <a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fhotpoint-38-doe-cu-ft-capacity-stainess-steelbasket-washer%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dppr5007116835%26searchTerm%3Dhotpoint%2520washer%26catId%3DSearchResults%26searchType%3DPredictive%2520Search%7CProducts%7C6" target="_blank"><strong>Hotpoint </strong>3.8 cubic feet stainless steel basket washer</a> or <a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fhotpoint-62-cu-ft-capacity-aluminized-alloy-electric-dryer%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dppr5007116819%26catId%3DSearchResults%26searchTerm%3DHotpoint%2520washer" target="_blank">6.2 cubic feet electric dryer</a></div></li><li><div><a href="http://track.flexlinks.com/a.ashx?foid=1067927.3101652&amp;foc=1&amp;fot=9999&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jcpenney.com%2Fsamsung-energy-star-26-cu-ft-3-door-french-door-refrigerator%2Fprod.jump%3FppId%3Dpp5006380003%26catId%3DSearchResults%26searchTerm%3DSamsung%252026%2520cubic%2520feet%25203%2520door%2520French%2520door%2520refrigerator" target="_blank">$994 <strong>Samsung</strong> 26 cubic feet 3-door French door refrigerator</a></div></li></ul>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-cook-scrambled-eggs-anthony-bourdain-2016-11">The best way to cook scrambled eggs - according to Anthony Bourdain</a></h3>        <div>            <div>        <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="psN3hvNzE62N5ruLSbkeV_x0ABLB78lG" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>        </div>        </div>            </div>

JCPenney is opening earlier than almost everyone else on Thanksgiving - and it's giving out $500 coupons

<br /> <keyword id="1591452" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Minimalism">Minimalism</keyword> is the concept of leading a simple life by realising that less is best. In other words, shunning excessive consumerism is today’s concept of minimalism. However, minimalism is nothing new to India. The concept has been here for ages and will continue to be here. Indian philosophy has always advocated a frugal way of life while ostentation and excessive materialism had been frowned upon. According to the Vedic culture, a complete renunciation of material pleasures and family attachments was prescribed in the later stages of life (<em><keyword id="2412789" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Varnaprastha">Varnaprastha</keyword></em> and <em><keyword id="1546180" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="sanyaas">Sanyaas</keyword></em>).<br />
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<strong>Minimalism today</strong><br />
Of late, the whole world has embraced the western consumerist way of life. You are constantly bombarded with advertisements and inducements to buy this or that, without which your life will not be complete! Consequently, we surround ourselves with too many things whether we require those or not.<br />
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Countries are now obsessed with GDP, per capita income and economic growth. But do they even pause to think how many people are benefiting and how happy and content are they? It’s a race where we say if you have this, we also have to get it. But as technology has advanced to a level we have never dreamt before, one cannot stop aiming for a more comfortable life. However, minimalism does not stop you from doing that. In fact, practical minimalism today is a conscious avoidance of excessive and debt-ridden consumerism.<br />
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To understand this concept, let us take the ubiquitous cell phone. Almost everyone is obsessed with getting the latest model, irrespective of the cost and whether one will use even half the features of that phone. But you have to have the latest smartphone whether you require it or not. Earlier, white goods used to be a lifetime purchase. But now, it is ‘in with the newest model and out with the old.’<br />
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However, with more than 75% of India’s population earning less than Rs 150 a day, minimalism in India is not a choice – it’s a harsh reality of life.<br />
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Are you curious to know how do the low income groups fare in the country? Well, they survive by adopting the famous Indian principle of <em><keyword id="41852" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Jugaad">jugaad</keyword></em>.<br />
<br />
Utilising meagre and minimal resources, and working with them innovatively to solve existing problems or creating new techniques is the <em>jugaad</em> system that many in our country follow. One example of <em>jugaad</em> could be the transport vehicles powered by agricultural diesel engines to carry people around in remote parts with little or no road facilities. The famous Indian tricycle, fitted with a motor, transports goods even in major cities as it is most suitable for narrow roads and cheaper than a truck.<br />
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The pleasure of drinking a glass of really cold water on a hot Indian summer day is not restricted to those who own refrigerators. Mansukh Prajapati leveraged the traditional Indian clay pots and invented a clay refrigerator that provides cold water and keeps food cold. It does not require electricity and costs less than 25% of what an electric refrigerator does. It is ideal for India where many villages and towns have erratic or zero power supply.<br />
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Numerous examples of <em>jugaad</em> in everyday life abound. Old tin sheets are fireguards for roadside eateries; motorcycles power pump sets and more such practical, makeshift devices are found in many parts of the country.<br />
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But in the context of minimalism, people of India are no different and they still crave to move upwards and join today’s consumerist society. <em>Jugaad</em> is seen more as the need of the hour and not as a planned cost-effective alternative.<br />
<br />
This mindset has to change and Indian industry and government should actively promote <em>jugaad</em> for providing viable and long-lasting solutions. The <em>Mera Gao Power</em> innovation or MGP is one such example.<br />
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<em>Mera Gao Power</em> or MGP was set up by Nikhil Jaisinghani and Brian Shaad in 2010 to provide energy through cost-effective solar-powered mini grids in close proximity to consuming households. Supplying direct DC power at 24 watt, using less expensive aluminium wire (which is less likely to be stolen, compared to copper wiring) and eliminating costly inverters to convert DC to AC, which is again converted to DC for lighting, a household receives light for 7 hours per day at Rs 25 a month.<br />
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The simple design and execution, as well as the use of off-the-shelf materials, made it possible to install the system in a day and costs $1,000 for a typical hamlet grid.<br />
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Life has been transformed in 20,000 households in Uttar Pradesh, one of the most backward and power-deficient states of India. Many home businesses have taken advantage of the availability of electricity and increased their earnings. Women, too, can earn more as they are now able to work at night while children can study longer. Other small businesses and shop owners have also benefited from the availability of power. Moreover, people who had to walk miles to recharge their mobile phones and pay highly for the same, can do it at home now or in their villages. This ensures improved and better maintained communication links. Equally relevant is the fact that people are now content and happy.<br />
<br />
<strong>India and minimalism</strong><br />
Adopting practical minimalistic consumerism, combined with the unique <em>jugaad</em> abilities of Indians, will not only improve the quality of life and enhance our environment, but will also ensure a healthier and happier population. To quote Zen guru Leo Babauta, “A minimalist values quality, not quantity, in all forms.’’ Mahatma Gandhi also said, “Live simply, so that other may simply live.” This ideal should be the underlying principle of Indian minimalism.<br />

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