Cell C’s mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) platform, which has enabled company’s such as FNB Connect to connect its customers, announced on Monday that it has has brought in over one million customers. By Gugu Lourie
An MVNO is a mobile virtual network operator. It uses the mobile network infrastructure provided by a mobile network operator like Cell C, but offers its own products and services, including billing and fulfilment; on top of that network.
Cell C is currently the only mobile network operator in South Africa, who has opened their network to MVNO partner.
The Cell C’s platform connects clients of Virgin Mobile, Mr Price Mobile and me&you mobile.
“Over the last few years, Cell C has created a focused strategy to embrace sound partnerships with exceptional brands. This has allowed us to grow the MVNO base substantially,” says Cell C CEO Jose Dos Santos.
In a demanding market like South Africa customer specific offers are essential to grow market share. MVNOs bring much needed competition and value to the telecommunications industry.
The cellular market in South Africa is worth about R100bn/year. It’s a big market, and there are a number of opportunities where operators can’t necessarily serve customers as well as a MVNO could.
“MVNOs have incredible insights into their customers’ needs and based on those insights they can offer very targeted products,” says Dos Santos.
Cell C has invested significantly in a sophisticated MVNE platform, which allows the company to launch MVNOs in a very efficient manner. Cell C is currently the only mobile network operator in South Africa to offer a dedicated MVNO/E platform.
“The rise of MVNOs and their success is also testament to the confidence that business and consumers have in Cell C’s network, following significant investments to upgrade, expand, and introduce new technologies like LTE and LTE-Advanced, over the last few years,” says Dos Santos.
In addition to the growth in the MVNO customer base, Cell C has also nearly trebled its total subscriber base in the last four years. This is off the back of continuous network improvements, innovative services like Wi-Fi Calling and a commitment to value offerings.
Cell C has more than 24 million customers.
