Taobao to hire senior citizens

By Betty on Febbraio 16 2018

Taobao, China's biggest online retailer, is hiring two people who must be aged 60 years or older to assess new products aimed at middle-aged and senior consumers.

Applicants are expected to have a harmonious relationship with their children, be an influencer in society such as in square dance groups, enjoy reading about psychology and sociology, and have at least one year of online shopping experience.

Taobao currently has more than 30 million users aged over 50. By 2020, it's expected that China will have 255 million people over the age of 60 — a huge opportunity if Taobao can figure out what these shoppers want online.

According to Alibaba's spokesperson, its two new hires will be working on an "exciting new version of Taobao" and adapting the app to suit this demographic.

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Discussion
Why is Taobao targeting senior citizens?
Can you think of any other businesses that are also focusing their attention on senior consumers?
In what other ways should retailers and other businesses adapt to an ageing society?
Do you think two people is enough to do the job?