Running a Coconut Water Stand at 60: My Digital Journey

Seu Antônio, a 60-year-old vendor from Fortaleza, shares his surprising experience learning to use Aki — and why he'd never go back.

2025-11-30 — Antônio Ferreira

My name is Antônio. I am 60 years old and I have been selling coconut water on Praia do Futuro in Fortaleza since 1989. My son signed me up for Aki. I argued with him for a week before agreeing to try it.

Learning the App

The truth is, it was hard at first. I had to ask my granddaughter to help me take the photos. The menus, the pricing, the delivery radius — all new things for me. But the Aki support team was very patient. They called me three times to walk me through the setup.

The Results

In my first month, I got 78 orders through the app. People I had never seen on my stretch of beach. Young people who found me by searching. Some came back five, six times. One customer drives from Meireles — the other side of the city — just for my coconut water because she says it's the freshest she's ever had.

What I Tell Other Vendors My Age

I know many of us are suspicious of technology. I was too. But this is just a tool, like a better cooler or a sharper machete. It helps you do what you already do, only better. Don't let your children leave you behind.