A start up business aiming to make paper receipts a thing of the past has gone from Blackburn to France to win a major award.

NOUMI Digital Receipts was developed by Blackburn entrepreneur Shakir Lincoln based on an idea had in 2019.

Since then the concept has gone from strength to strength and has now been honoured with the  NFC Forum Global Innovation Award at a ceremony in Nice in the south of France.

Mr Lincoln said: “This recognition, presented in the beautiful setting of Nice on the French Riviera, is a testament to our hard work and dedication over the past four years.”

But he said that this is still just the beginning for a company he hopes will go on to change the face of the retail industry not just in East Lancashire but across the country and internationally.

A NOUMI deviceA NOUMI device (Image: Public)

Mr Lincoln said: “Away from our core offering we are venturing into AI driven business intelligence, loyalty, white label offerings, gamification. 

“Basically, a complete data product. 

“We have already had commitments from recognised retailers and close to finalising agreements for major territories in Africa and Gulf region.

“Finally, we have had multiple equity-based offers for investment into our business which we are considering. 

“2025 is set to be a massive one for this Blackburn start-up!”

The app allows customers to receive their receipts seamlessly and digitally by giving customers a simple way of downloading their receipts by tapping their phones on point of sale devices.

This would allow them to keep all their receipts in one place while also allowing them to access special offers and to be entered in for prizes.

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The receipts will also be sorted into different categories, such as groceries, making them easier to store, keep track of, and gain access to later.

Development began in 2020, followed by a quick expansion thanks to backing from Preston based Angel Investors.

So far, the company has already scored major successes, teaming up with app development company APADAMI and securing a proof of concept with Londis, who run 7,000 UK stores.

Spurred on by his company’s awards success, Mr Lincoln hopes to take the company to greater heights still over the next year.