1. Our Commitment to FPOs
At Group Market, we believe the future of Indian agriculture lies in the strength of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Our platform is designed to be a "Digital Bridge," offering FPOs direct access to retailers and consumers without unnecessary intermediaries.
This policy outlines the rights, responsibilities, and operating guidelines for all FPOs registered on Group Market.
2. Eligibility & Onboarding
To sell on Group Market, an FPO must meet the following criteria:
- Legal Entity: Must be a registered Producer Company, Cooperative Society, or Section 8 Company.
- Documentation: Must provide valid incorporation documents, PAN card, and Bank Account details.
- FSSAI Compliance: Must hold a valid FSSAI license or registration relevant to the food products being sold.
- Authorized Representative: The account must be managed by the CEO, Director, or an authorized Board Member of the FPO.
3. Product Listing & Pricing
- Pricing Control: The FPO retains full control over product pricing. You are encouraged to list competitive "Farm Gate" wholesale prices.
- Catalog Accuracy: FPOs are responsible for uploading accurate descriptions, images, and specifications (e.g., "Unpolished," "Sulphur-free," "% Moisture").
- Inventory Management: FPOs must update stock levels in real-time to avoid order cancellations.
4. Quality Assurance Standards
Quality is the backbone of Group Market.
- The Promise: Products must match the description listed on the app (e.g., specific grain size, color, variety).
- Pre-Shipment Verification: Group Market reserves the right to conduct in-person quality checks at the FPO location before the goods are loaded onto the truck.
- Rejection: If the produce does not meet the sample quality or the listed description during our onsite check, the shipment may be rejected.
5. Logistics & Fulfillment Model
Group Market operates on a "100% Fulfillment on Us" model to reduce the burden on farmers.
FPO Responsibility
Your team is responsible for grading, sorting, and packing the produce securely for transport. The goods must be ready at the "Farm Gate" or designated warehouse by the scheduled pickup time.
Group Market Responsibility
We handle the transportation. We commission full or partial truckloads and assume responsibility for the goods once they are loaded onto our commissioned vehicle and the manifest is signed.
6. Fees & Commission
- Low Commission Structure: To ensure maximum value retention for the farmer, Group Market charges a service fee/commission of 0.2% or lower on the transaction value.
- Transparency: Any applicable fees will be clearly displayed before the final settlement. There are no hidden onboarding charges.
7. Payments & Settlements
- Secure Transactions: All payments are processed via Paysharp, an RBI-approved payment gateway.
- Settlement Cycle: Payouts to the FPO Bank Account are initiated after the successful delivery and acceptance of goods by the buyer (or within a specific agreed timeframe, e.g., T+2 days).
- Taxation: FPOs are responsible for their own GST filings and tax liabilities arising from the sale of goods.
8. Returns & Disputes
- Quality Disputes: If a buyer raises a dispute regarding quality (e.g., damaged goods inside sealed packs, adulteration) that was not detectable during our visual check, the FPO may be liable for refunds or replacements.
- Transit Damage: If goods are damaged purely due to transport mishandling, Group Market assumes liability.
9. Code of Conduct
We reserve the right to suspend or delist any FPO that:
- Consistently supplies substandard quality.
- Attempts to bypass the platform to transact directly with Group Market-acquired clients (Circumvention).
- Engages in unethical business practices.
10. Contact for FPO Support
We are here to help you grow.