E-Business
Report Highlights How IoT Helps African Logistics Companies Pivot to Beat Covid-19
Pod Group, a provider of connectivity services for the Internet of Things (IoT) has published a report based on research carried out during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic among logistics companies in Africa, who have had the foresight to quickly pivot their businesses to address gaps in the market that have opened up as a result of the lockdowns.
Pod Group’s qualitative research found that many transport routes in Africa have suffered considerably from border closures resulting in less vehicles travelling along Africa’s transport corridors with the corresponding negative impact on industry revenue.
This situation is compounded by cost cuts, both within the transport companies themselves and among their customers. As a result, some logistics companies in the region have found it necessary to rethink their approach to business and bring in new sources of revenue.
One of the companies interviewed, Techmansion Solutions Ltd. saw a window of opportunity when a local taxi firm approached them about the use of their vehicles for private hire. With public transport services reduced to just 25% of their normal capacity, enterprises were looking for other ways to mobilize their workforces.
Techmansion quickly adapted their usual telematics-based fleet management services to provide an IoT solution which enables enterprises to reserve private cars for their customers and staff remotely using an integrated booking system.
Other companies have adapted to the changes in transport routes by focusing on the areas benefiting from the diversion of fleets to new transport corridors.
One of Beira’s leading logistics terminals is seeing increased visibility and new demand along the Beira Corridor due to the Covid-19 measures implemented in South Africa, which has enforced one of the strictest lockdown regimes worldwide.
One aspect that all companies interviewed agreed on, however, was the importance of IoT solutions as ammunition against the negative effects of Covid-19 and as a vital tool in the transformation of their businesses to create new revenue streams.
Using connected devices to track, secure and monitor their fleets, even in rural areas with patchy coverage has given them the competitive edge they need to target new customer segments e.g. the transportation of valuable cargos such as gold or copper.
The availability of these connectivity solutions as managed services with an agnostic platform-as-a-service (PaaS) model has also helped generate new business opportunities.
For companies such as Fleetmatics Africa who are looking to reduce overhead costs because of losses incurred by the pandemic, integrating third-party software enables them to offer value-added services, such as fleet data analytics to calculate cost per kilometre, without having to invest in their own in-house development.
David Boxshall, Business Development Director at Pod Group commented, “Covid-19 has hit the logistics sector in emerging markets such as Africa very hard, but it is amazing to see how a flexible mindset and innovative use of technology has given some of these companies the cutting edge.
“The ability to connect, manage and secure their vehicle fleets remotely has enabled them to target new customers in high value sectors, and in some cases, change their business model completely.”
E-Business
Hisense Electronics Unveils Flagship Showroom in Abuja
By Fabian Tarpael, Abuja
Hisense electronics unveiled a flagship showroom in Abuja over the weekend. Speaking at the event, Mr. Mustapha Khries, the Abuja Branch Manager of the Fouani Group, highlighted the significance of the flagship store, describing it as the first of its kind in the entire West African region.
He also addressed the challenges facing businesses in Nigeria, particularly the high exchange rates and transportation costs.
“The Fouani Group remains resilient and ready to overcome challenges, unlike others who often exit the market when faced with similar issues.”
Ms. Haifa Du, Senior Sales Manager for Hisense Electronics, emphasized the brand’s commitment to affordability and innovation, stating that Hisense offers the most cost-effective and advanced solutions in the market.
The event underscored Hisense’s dedication to technological innovation and sustainability while reaffirming its leadership position in the consumer electronics market.
Mr. Robbin Wei, Senior Sales Manager of Hisense Group, supported by Mr. Greg and Ms. Haifa Du, showcased various innovative products from the new flagship store.
Among the standout products showcased include; The Hisense 110″ Smart Ultra AMOLED TV, featuring unique capabilities such as a solar-powered remote control and a “locate remote” function to find misplaced remotes easily.
E-Business
PalmPay, Jumia Partner to Launch Integration for Shoppers in Nigeria
PalmPay, Africa-focused fintech operating Nigeria’s most used mobile wallet, and Jumia, Africa’s e-commerce giant, today announce a strategic partnership to enhance the digital payment ecosystem on the continent, starting with payment integrations and co-marketing efforts in Nigeria.
This partnership underscores both parties’ commitment to developing the digital payment ecosystem in Nigeria and grow the use of the cashless economy.
WIth PalmPay now available as a payment method, shoppers on Jumia will now be able to pay for their purchases with the option to check out with their PalmPay wallet, ensuring a seamless user experience and transaction reliability through the direct integration.
“We are proud to partner with Jumia as we bring together the best of fintech and e-commerce to redefine the online shopping experience,” said Sofia Zab, Chief Marketing Officer, PalmPay. “This strategic alliance aligns perfectly with our shared commitment to delivering a superior user experience and exceptional value to our customers.”
Speaking on the partnership, Sunil Natraj, CEO, Jumia Nigeria added: “At Jumia, we are dedicated to creating value for our customers by ensuring a convenient, reliable, and secure shopping experience.
“This partnership with PalmPay strengthens our commitment to enhancing the digital payments within our platform. By integrating PalmPay, we are providing more options for customers to access affordable and quality goods with the convenience of cashless transactions.”
This alliance marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between two industry giants, aiming to drive innovation, increase convenience for consumers, and foster the adoption of digital payments across Africa.
To celebrate the launch of the partnership, PalmPay and Jumia are launching a special Christmas campaign, running from December 11th to 30th. During this period, customers who make purchases on Jumia using the PalmPay payment method will stand a chance to win exciting cash rewards. More details can be found on the brands’ respective social media pages. @palmpay_ng and @JumiaNigeria.
E-Business
Aero Contractors Launches “12 Days of Christmas” Campaign
Aero Contractors is thrilled to announce the launch of its “12 Days of Christmas” campaign, a festive and engaging social media initiative designed to spread holiday cheer and reward loyal customers.
Running from December 13 to December 24, 2024, this exciting campaign underscores Aero Contractors’ commitment to connecting families, friends, and communities during the holidays.
The “12 Days of Christmas” campaign invites travel enthusiasts, loyal customers, and holiday travelers to participate in fun and interactive activities on Aero Contractors’ social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). Each day will feature engaging posts such as trivia, puzzles, and challenges designed to ignite the festive spirit and encourage community participation.
Participants are encouraged to follow Aero Contractors’ social media pages, engage with the daily posts by liking, commenting, or sharing, and follow the specific instructions for each day’s activity.
Winners will be selected daily and announced on the respective platforms. Exciting prizes await participants, with the grand reward of a free return economy class ticket—a perfect gift for reconnecting with loved ones or exploring new destinations this holiday season.
“At Aero Contractors, we believe in the power of togetherness, especially during the holidays,” said Capt. Ado Sanusi, Managing Director of Aero Contractors.
“Our ‘12 Days of Christmas’ campaign is our way of giving back to the community that has supported us throughout the year. It’s an opportunity to engage, celebrate, and reward our customers while spreading joy and festive cheer.”
This campaign targets travel enthusiasts, loyal Aero Contractors customers, and families looking to make the most of the holiday season. Through this initiative, Aero Contractors reaffirms its dedication to safe, reliable, and efficient air travel, bringing people closer when it matters most.
Follow Aero Contractors on Instagram, Facebook, and X to join the “12 Days of Christmas” campaign. Engage daily for a chance to win a free return economy class ticket and other exciting offers.
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