An innovative new funeral application (app) has been launched to digitise the process of arranging and managing funerals.

JSE-listed integrated property development company Calgro M3, which owns and operates five memorial parks in South Africa, has signed an exclusive agreement with Sendoff, an app that enables online funeral planning.

The agreement will see Calgro M3 secure the rights to have its three Memorial Parks in Gauteng, as well as those in Cape Town, listed on the app.

“The convenience of this offering is something that has not been offered previously, and will appeal to a wide range of individuals, including those who do not have family members to assist with such planning, or who don’t perhaps want to rely on others for such help. The ease of use is also attractive in today’s increasingly online world, and where time is often a factor,” says Calgro M3 Memorial Parks MD Waldi Joubert.

 Sendoff CEO Zolani Matebese says the app was built to digitise the entire process of organising a funeral. “From arranging for a loved one to be picked up from a home, hospice or hospital once they have passed on, to choosing a casket or urn, flowers, transport, catering, you can do everything via Sendoff, all from the convenience of your Smart phone or computer.”

He added that the partnership with Calgro M3 is strategically important as it moves Sendoff closer to the goal of ensuring that every part of the funeral services value chain is available on the app.

“This is a ground-breaking use of technology by Calgro M3. Where else can you view and order a private grave or memorial completely online and in the palm of your hand other than on Sendoff?”  asks Sendoff COO Thabisile Sethaba.

“We promise our users a better way of organising a funeral and with municipal cemeteries suffering from aesthetic issues and serious space constraints, and South African families looking for a more secure, serene and beautiful final resting place for their loved ones, this is us keeping that promise,” she adds.