TELECEL Zimbabwe has introduced ten new franchise stores in Zimbabwe in line with plans to expand the mobile network’s retail footprint through a new franchise model designed to meet increasing customer service needs.
The company has announced that the retail expansion initiative has already begun with ten franchise shops being opened in Rusape, Zvishavane, Chiredzi, Norton, Mutare, Harare, Gwanda, Bulawayo, Gutu and Gokwe.
Telecel’s Chief Commercial Officer, Nkosinathi Ncube, says the retail expansion initiative will bring added convenience to Telecel customers and will be part of the company’s multi-channel customer experience strategy which will also include the rapid roll out of kiosks to complement existing retail infrastructure.
“In order to improve overall customer service experience, Telecel has chosen local community franchise partners who will reflect our own brand values and dedication to customer excellence. The franchise shops will be staffed and operated by trained personnel to safeguard our brand values and award winning customer service culture,” said Mr Ncube.
The Telecel-led franchise partnerships will empower local business people by providing start-up capital and covering the costs of furnishing and branding the shops as well as providing Telecel related stocks.
“These franchise shops are Telecel’s way of including locals in our business ecosystem which will empower local entrepreneurs in these tough economic times. During a franchise business partnership, Telecel takes care of set-up costs which are usually a barrier for most people wanting to go into business,” said Nkosinathi.
“Most of our franchise shops are in rural and peri-urban areas which will help include often marginalised communities into the main-stream economy. Telecel has sought the assistance of community entrepreneurs to increase our retail footprint in areas where our presence is thin through win-win partnerships which will support entrepreneurship,” added Ncube.
As part of its commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience, Telecel has continuously sought new and innovative ways in which it can better serve customer needs. The company’s CEO, Mrs Angeline Vere, recently announced plans to roll out kiosks to help complement the mobile company’s current retail infrastructure.
