The Nation Newspaper

Category: Shopping

  • Good old Christmas trees

    Good old Christmas trees

    A Christmas tree is one of the most enduring traditions this Yuletide, TONIA ‘DIYAN writes.

    For most people, whether at home, offices, shops or malls, Christmas is incomplete without the Christmas Tree. To  many,  the tree is one accessory that is a must-have during the Yuletide. Little wonder almost everybody has since caught the bug.

    How it all began

    One legend had it that one evening, Martin Luther was walking home through the forest and noticed how beautifully the stars shone through the trees and he decided to share the beauty with his wife. So, he cut one of the trees and took a part of it home. He placed small lighted candles on the branches and said that it would be a symbol of the beautiful Christmas sky. That was how the Christmas tree came about.

     

    An enduring tradition

    Every year is different when it comes to the availability of Christmas Trees and it is hard to imagine Christmas without displaying one in the home. However, buying a very good one could help cut down on expenses year after year because there wouldn’t be need to shop for one every Christmas.

    All that is needed is a little maintenance, most important is the ability to set it up for the first time and decorate it. Experts advise that it is better to leave it as it is. David Robson, an American Extension Educator, Horticulture, said: “The Christmas Tree has gone through a long process of development rich in many legends and that it requires a good area to be stored and properly cleaned up for the next year.”

    The tree is a great addition to households during Christmas seasons. It has developed from basic to modern designs reflecting this era.

    Taste and preference should not be a problem since there are various trees to choose from. So, there will always be something to fit homes of any range, which could be set up much earlier and left up for longer.

    A Christmas tree could be four to 30 feet tall, the colour, as well as shape also varies. However, today’s Christmas trees are made of high quality standards that make them appear unique and beautiful. Christmas lights could be put up permanently on the tree, likewise other accessories such as garlands. The Christmas Light is a small, pyramid-like frame, usually decorated with glass balls, tinsel, and a candle on top. It is a symbol of the birth of Christ as the Light of the World.

    Christmas tree has a long association with Christianity. It is a symbol of a living Christmas spirit and brings pleasant aroma of the season. The earliest Christmas trees were referred to as “paradises” and often hung with round pastry wafers.

    Christmas trees are often decorated with tinsel, lights and small ornaments which hang from the branches. Chocolate coins or chocolate shapes are also hung on the tree and presents are usually placed under the tree.

    There are varieties of Christmas trees made from wood and feathers of birds such as duck and goose which were dyed in green to resemble the pine needles and attached to wooden sticks to look like the branches.

    Many would love to own a huge Christmas tree in their homes loaded with lights and ornaments. But some do not have space for a big tree, therefore they settle for a small slim type. It has the normal shape but uses less space when placed on the floor. It could be placed at the corner with the impact of a full-sized tree.

    There are different types of Christmas trees, namely: Fraser fir- an attractive one, soft to touch with space between the branches and easier to decorate and  Nobel fir- deep green in colour, with lovely branch shape. Its branches have good spacing between them and make it easy to hang ornaments on them.

    Another type called the Colorado blue spruce has a pyramidal shape with strong limbs that can hold heavy ornaments. It is known for its lovely blue foliage which can also appear shiny; this tree is only right for the home if the design does not include a bluish tint.

    Balsam fir is a beautiful dark green colour tree with airy, flexible branches that may not be able to hold heavy ornaments, but gives the home a pleasant fragrance.

    Grand fir with its lovely dark green colour, is soft to touch. It grows as high as 300 feet.

    There is the White fir for those who can maintain it. It has a pleasing natural shape, aroma and needle retention. The popularity of the white tree could be because of the famous Christmas song (Jingle Bell). Some people choose it because it symbolises purity and peace. Others go for it because white simply fits anything. Some also love it because of its similarity to a real tree if covered in white snow. The amount of care applied in preserving it would make it last longer.

    Another Christmas tree called the Scotch pine needs a glove to be decorated because its needles could be as sharp as pins.

    Others are the frosted, giant, coloured, fibre optic, feather with brush bristles, plastic, glass Christmas trees and lots more. There are other unique ones which come in various colours such as pink; which will surely be an instant favourite of teenage females. Others come in the colours of purple, red or gold.

    Today, as many make trees, lights and gifts, the centre of their Christmas practice, it is important to remember that these items are ultimately symbols of the one who gave himself to unite heaven and earth.

  • Travelbeta launches customisable activities travelers

    As parts of its efforts at filling the gap in the Nigerian travel industry as well as offering customisable travel and vacation options for its clients, Travelbeta has launched an online booking portal with exciting activities and tours options for its customers for as low as N3000 per activity or tour.

    First of its kind in the Nigerian travel industry, the Travelbeta activities and tours portal will enable customers to individually select activities of interest and locations they would like to visit on their trip at the point of booking, as opposed to offering them predetermined activities and tours. This they can do by selecting from a range of options in over 500 top cities worldwide. The portal is live and accessible on www.travelbeta.com

    Speaking about the portal, the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Travelbeta, Mr.Onyeka Akumah said that Travelbeta is committed to providing innovative travel solutions to its growing clientele by offering unique values and ensuring that its customers do not just travel, but they also enjoy a pleasant experience with Travelbeta.

    From providing flight and hotel bookings for over 900 choice destinations, to travel logistics, customisable and affordable activity options and excellent customer service rendered by its travel consultants, Travelbeta is set to change the game.

    Travelbeta.com is an emerging leader in the Nigerian Travel and Tours industry and the brainchild of a group of passionate professionals with backgrounds in the Hospitality, Business Services, Logistics, Finance, and Communications industries who all possess a genuine love for travel. The company caters to customers’ needs in the areas of flights, hotels, airport pickups, vacation packages, corporate packages, visa assistance, and international telephone services.

  • Travelbeta launches customisable activities and tours for travellers

    As parts of its efforts at filling the gap in the Nigerian travel industry as well as offering customisable travel and vacation options for its clients, Travelbeta has launched an online booking portal with exciting activities and tours options for its customers for as low as N3000 per activity or Tour.

    First of its kind in the Nigerian travel industry, the Travelbeta activities and tours portal will enable customers to individually select activities of interest and locations they would like to visit on their trip at the point of booking, as opposed to offering them predetermined activities and tours. This they can do by selecting from a range of options in over 500 top cities worldwide.The portal is live and accessible on www.travelbeta.com

    Speaking about the portal, the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Travelbeta, Mr. Onyeka Akumah said that Travelbeta is committed to providing innovative travel solutions to its growing clientele by offering unique values and ensuring that its customers do not just travel, but they also enjoy a pleasant experience with Travelbeta.

    From providing flight and hotel bookings for over 900 choice destinations, to travel logistics, customisable and affordable activity options and excellent customer servicerendered by its travel consultants, Travelbeta is set to change the game.

    Travelbeta.com is an emerging leader in the Nigerian Travel and Tours industry and the brainchild of a group of passionate professionals with backgrounds in the Hospitality, Business Services, Logistics, Finance, and Communications industries who all possess a genuine love for travel. The company caters to customers’ needs in the areas of flights, hotels, airport pickups, vacation packages, corporate packages, visa assistance, and international telephone services.

  • Panasonic opens manufacturing base in Lagos, partners SIMS for distribution

    Panasonic opens manufacturing base in Lagos, partners SIMS for distribution

    Plans have been concluded by Panasonic, a renowned electronics and home appliances marketing/distribution company to establish a local Panasonic manufacturing base with local sales offices for room Air-conditioning and TV division in Lagos.

    Looking at a wider customer base and a stronger hold in the Nigerian market, Panasonic is partnering SIMS Nigeria to help distribute products in the country.

    The partnership is expected to position Panasonic once again as a dominant player in the country’s electronic products market category that has become very competitive.

    With main focus on Japanese Quality Systems Establishment, both brands have come up with an initiative that will boast the Panasonic mission to increase the focus on Africa market with localisation and customer satisfaction as the key agenda.

    Showing satisfaction with the partnership, Mr. Fab Uzor, General Manager SIMS Nigeria said, “We are excited partnering Panasonic. Many years of operating in the Nigerian market has given us an edge in understanding the mind of the Nigerian consumer. The Nigerian market is very competitive because of the number of brands that play here. As a business, you need special skills in understanding your customers to make a head way. We have successfully done this over the years which gave us prominence in the competitive electronics market. We chose to partner with Panasonic because the brand stands for quality and we are representing the number one electronic company. “

    “Our spread will also avail our consumers the opportunity of purchasing quality Panasonic brands that are backed with warranty and superb ‘after sales services’ at our numerous state-of-the-art showrooms and stores. We also offer home delivery services.”

    Mr. Shinichi Wakita, Managing Director, Panasonic Marketing Middle East & Africa (PMMAF) commenting on the development said: “Panasonic has always delighted itself in working for the Nigerian market. We are a customer-loving brand and this market motivates us to keep going with our business philosophy hence the concept of producing ‘locally-fit’ products comes through us effortlessly. We are glad to be associating with SIMS, as it has carved a niche for itself in a highly dynamic and competitive electronics/home appliance marketing environment.”

    “Our locally based AC and TV manufacturing unit reflects Panasonic’s Basic Business Philosophy of contribution to the society as it will provide various opportunities for Nigerian workforce to understand the Japanese Craft and Craftsmanship through our expert training programmes. This joint venture will open new horizons for the market in terms of job creations and knowledge elevation,” he added.

    “Our new partner, SIMS will help us develop indigenously because it has the nationwide network service. We and SIMS can work together to deliver our goods nationwide. SIMS has a very good network sales and service and at the same time, the Managing Director has a good philosophy to manage the company and we can agree on the philosophy to contribute to the economy of Nigeria. It is very certain that Nigeria will benefit in terms of local manufacturing which we are currently working on. Panasonic is going to bring the technology knowledge transfer to Nigerians and quality products which are going to be made available.”

    Speaking on how the partnership can put Panasonic ahead of its competitors, Wakita said: “Actually, Korea and Chinese already came into market to assemble for manufacturing.

    Together with SIMS, we are trying to catch up and I’m very sure we can catch up with Chinese and Korea.”

  • Nuel Mark Group celebrates 10th anniversary launches Foundation

    Nuel Mark Group, the leading Real Estate consulting, valuation, investment advisory and environmental services company recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and launch of Nuel Mark Foundation with a lecture to mark the ground-breaking achievements of the conglomerate.

    In welcoming guest to the event, the lead consultant and Head of practice  of Nuel Mark Group, Esv.(Barr)Emmanuel Mark remarked that the company is delighted at reaching remarkable 10 years in its operation in Nigeria, and having achieved great milestones as well as having contributed immensely to the economic growth of Nigeria, it became necessary for the company to celebrate. He noted that the company is prepared for the future with a lot of enthusiasm, innovation and dynamism,

    On the establishment of Nuel Mark Foundation to coincide with 10 years anniversary, the managing director stated that “in effort to actively play important part towards realizing an inclusive society Nuel Mark  Development Foundation will be creating a niche in the following activities; Housing and urban Development; investment in policy research; promotion of an outstanding research institute, scientific journal publication outfit and an annual  summit; as well as interests in water and environmental sanitation; capacity building for community water management; providing platform to mentor young children and encouraging creative writing amongst a litany of others”.

    He further noted that “in establishing the Nuel Mark Foundation, the promoter – Nuel Mark Group has opted to scale the heritage of service to community and globe which it imbibed from Rotary International. Also, the depth of leadership qualities and absolute commitment of members of the noble institution to both urban and human development remains a central motivation”.

    Speaking further, he noted that “the imperative for dynamic intervention in service delivery to meet the increasing demands of an ever plural society such as the economic empowerment of innovators, entrepreneurs and talented young people, in addition to addressing new opportunities and or make better use of resources became a new challenge for the organization. To this end, it becomes necessary to promote a foundation with clear focus and scope”.

    Anniversary lectures were delivered by two eminent real estate professionals,  Dr (Mrs) Iyenemi  Ibimina Kakulu an Associate professor of Land management, valuation and the chief Executive of Niesv learning centre  who spoke on “Integrated Land Administration and Mass Housing Development in the Niger Delta”  and Adekunle ’G Awolaja who spoke on Innovative Business Processes for Automated Land Administration in Nigeria. Both speakers advocated for increased government participation in housing development in Nigeria

    Nuel Mark is a group of companies offering very diverse range of services including Real Estate consultancy, Valuation, real Estate legal services and Environmental consultancy  Services,  with a one common thread woven throughout the Group of companies and focused on customer service.

  • Black Friday: what Nigerians have to say?

    The media blitz that heralded the Black Friday, a day that gained popularity from an American tradition in which people are urged to give to the less-privileged for the sake of humanity, was monumental in Nigeria. TONIA ‘DIYAN reports

    In Nigeria, most of the online retail shops offered mouth watering offers to attract buyers to their platform.

    Among the platforms that offered so much promise was Jumia, arguably Nigeria’s largest online retail outlet, which offered up to 90 percent slash on all its products as a gift to buyers who wanted to enjoy the Black Friday.

    With the promise of up to 90 percent slash in prices, Nigerians had, before the date, compiled a list of products to buy, even as the online shop sustained the media blitz, declaring that the market would open midnight of Thursday, to end in the early hours of Saturday.

    But, many who thought they could make some purchases were disappointed as none of the shops offered up to 90 percent slash on any product on offer on their platforms.

    From Jumia, to Konga, to Kaymu and Yudala, all online platforms, checks in the early hours of Friday up to 3am showed that most shops had between 50 and 70 percent slash on their products, while some items retained their prices.

    One of such disappointed buyers was Mr Friday Austin (not real name), who had listed several items, especially electronics, he wanted to buy in the price slash bonanza. “My brother, I couldn’t even buy one single product. I had been dreaming of buying a television set, but when I saw the price, I merely went back to sleep, it was a rip-off,” he said.

    Another, Yinka Aderibigbe said he was disappointed that none of the online shops slashed their products’ prices by 90 percent. It was as if they were telling us, ‘take what we have or nothing.’

    He said he bought a few things not because their prices were slashed, but because he needed them.

    He called on regulatory authorities to ensure that online traders do not take Nigerians for a ride any more as they did not keep the promise they made that Black Friday.

    “When I saw that none of the four online shops I visited in the early hours of Friday abided with the 90 percent slash they had offered, I finally decided to patronise one of them, just because I had decided to buy somethings, irrespective of the poor price slash they had offered. I hope something would be done and the Federal Government would put a stop to this that goes on unabated by operators. It is time we sanitised this country, and people realised that they can no longer promise without fulfilling the obligations that go with that promise.”

    Tajudeen Adebanjo also narrated his ordeal while trying to make cheap purchases on Black Friday. His words: “My experience on Black Friday was not palatable. I found that the 90 percent discount the stores promised was not real. They all did not give out more than 40, 50 or 30 percent on items displayed. When I thought I was lucky to find an item with 50 percent, shortly after I clicked on it, I was told it was  out of stock. I think the whole Black Friday idea was not real; it is a way of ripping off Nigerians. Also, I think it is just a way of luring people to their website to convince them to buy.”

    He added that ‘’what is being practised here is not Black Friday as it is done in the western world. In the UK, for instance, on Black Fridays, people are sure to buy items at very cheap rates, at the percentage advertised. In Nigeria, the reverse is the case. So, why deceive poor Nigerians who are managing to make ends meet because of our very poor economy.”

    Another shopper Fuad Adelaja said: ”When I heard of Black Friday, I was delighted that I wouldn’t miss it like I did last year. I had saved the date on my phone diary to enable me stay in touch. But I refused to fall victim to tricks; I therefore, headed to The Blue Roof at Ikeja, where I bought men’s briefs and shirts I always wanted but couldn’t afford because they were expensive. I saw the day as an avenue to have my wishes come through and bought six at a cheap rate,  got a designer shirt for N2,500 instead of N10,000 or N15,000 .”

    Solomon Odeniyi had anticipated that he would buy all he needed for Christmas on Black Friday; but he was disappointed when he couldn’t buy an item because of the exorbitant rates placed on them. “I anticipated that items worth N20,000 would be reduced to N5,000, because that was what all online stores made us believe. I only noticed 40 to 60 percent discount on few ladies wears, mainly underwears.  Even discount on mobile phones were not more than 10, 15 and 20 per cent.

    Chinonso Onu complained of waking up very early to purchase but was disappointed with the poor turnout. ”I woke up very early so I would be able to purchase some things at the so-called discounted prices they were claiming to give, but found that the 90 per cent discount they had been making noise about wasn’t true after all.”

    Susan Eric also spoke of how she had planned for the Black Friday, thinking it would be fun as she would stock her house this Christmas with some new electronic gadgets. But she couldn’t buy anything.

    ”I told my husband that I wanted to make the Black Friday an opportunity to buy some things and he laughed at me. I wondered why he laughed, so I asked. He said they were deceiving me and I wanted to be a victim, I just pretended not to listen.

    ‘’Lo, the day came and, at first, it was the network and I was consoling myself on that. I finally logged on to the website and the 90 percent turned to 10 per cent or even less. I got very angry that I could not even tell my husband about it when, I finally got home. I do not believe that there is anything like Black Friday at all. Experience, they say, is the best teacher. I won’t even try it next year.”

    True! Many a Nigerian shopper had thought to grab great deals for the festive season. They looked forward to the annual shopping bonanza that has been a huge hit in America for years, in which huge discounts are promised and fulfilled. But their hopes were dashed. There was nothing of the sort. Like the online retailers will always say ‘Crazy Discounts’ indeed.

    He had moved more towards digital and online shopping on Black Friday. He anticipated that online shopping will be bigger than ever as the biggest discounts ever will be ongoing to benefit him.

    For retailers, particularly those who are online, the concept of Black Friday has opened up a whole new avenue for marketing in Nigeria. In the last two years, they say they have recorded tremendous traffic on Black Friday.They said  more Nigerians are getting aware of the significant shopping event, and the expectations of shoppers are heightened with many waiting till Black Friday to make strategic purchases.

    During Black Friday, businesses are to  reward shoppers who are loyalty to their brands. Feedback is positive and the level of engagement continues to be on the increase. The last two years of Black Friday  in this part of the world has facilitated the adoption of e-commerce processes and encouraged the expansion of trade systems for indigenous businesses.

    According to  an online merchant who has imported all the western method of shopping into the country in the last three years, “Black Friday boosts the country’s economy by connecting more customers to great businesses. They say it helps consumers get more value for their money and actually save towards enjoying a product they may not have tried otherwise.”

    These merchants said they witnessed slight increase at the beginning of the Black Friday week, adding that it is because people are searching for great prices on the internet. They said that with the success of e-commerce and tech businesses in the country, Nigerians are more comfortable shopping online and more open to enjoying the benefits of the Black Friday trend .

  • Binatone launches new garment steamer

    Binatone launches new garment steamer

    Leading electronics manufacturer, Binatone Industries has stormed the Nigerian electronic market with a new garment steamer. The new product according to the Chairman of Binatone group, Mr Partap Lalvani, does not only remove creases from garments but also kills all forms of bacteria in clothes.

    “Binatone has recently introduced the perfect Garment Steamer, the GS-1800. The steam not only removes the creases from garments, it kills all the known bacteria, and even adds new life to the garments, especially ladies’ delicate silks, and men’s woollen suits. Outside agencies often do not have clean surroundings and your garments can carry several germs not normally visible to the naked eye. Binatone now has the perfect answer.. “ he stated.

    He disclosed that the new garment steamer is also perfect for steaming curtains, upholstery and other dirty greasy corners in the house. “The portable size of the Binatone Garment Steamer makes it perfect for steaming curtains, upholstery and even steam cleaning some dirty/greasy corners in the house. In fact, it can even be classified as a Multi-purpose Steamer.” he stressed

    “Most householders have always found it difficult to Press/iron their full-length lounge dresses or men’s woollen suits, and have been forced to use outside agencies. Normal irons are a must for every home but these have some severe limitations, especially when it comes to large delicate garments.” He added

    Explaining the how the garment steamer which was designed by a British Engineer, Mr. Robert Watkins, works like magic, Mr Lalvani stated, “In a matter of seconds, the water inside the Binatone Steamer’s generously sized tank turns to steam, and removes all creases from all types of clothes/garments whether small or large, and regardless of the any type of material, whether tough cotton, delicate silks or expensive woolens. Normal irons can burn some filaments of your garments, thereby reducing their life, but the Binatone garment steamer puts new life into your garments”

    He pointed out that the complete set of the garment steamer includes a 1.35 litre water tank with a built-in, automatic sensor, which disconnects the power as soon as the water tank gets empty.

    “The product comes with an adjustable and sturdy stand, a hanger and even a special glove to protect the user’s hand. It is also incredibly user-friendly, and something that every householder should own.” He added

    Mr Lalvani disclosed that the new garment steamer is available at most leading stores like, Shoprite, Park-n-shop, GAME, Cash-n-Carry and Jumia.

  • Overhaul of ‘death’ sector

    This is a column that seeks to mould, shape societal values and to protect the interests of consumers, citizens and touch other broader relevant topics under the column: ‘TRUE VALUE 360’. It is an interactive column as suggestions, complaints; day to day experiences are welcome.

    This week’s edition is STARVATION AND THE COMMON MAN

    Some analysts have propounded various theories about Nigeria being an accident waiting to happen or an accident happened already or that we will break up by a particular date etcetera, etcetera but we thank God we are still standing today and will keep standing by His Grace. One of the reasons given is that Nigeria comprises of unlikely bedfellows occasioned by forced marriage of various tribes. Many issues are begging for attention but today we are looking at the topic: STARVATION AND THE COMMON MAN.

    There is a saying that a hungry man is an angry man. A hungry, angry man will never be reasonable in action and thoughts that is if he can think at all. Nigeria’s business economy to date is driven by government policies and because of the 2015 transition/ change of government process, a lot of business decisions were put on hold which had the ripple effect of making the year very hard on the citizenry. There is cash squeeze in the economy and investors are threading carefully to venture into new grounds; there has been massive disengagement in public and banking sector for various reasons, the private sector and small business enterprises are also not left out of the hopefully temporary financial and economic pains.

    Citizens without steady income have become desperate and have devised various deadly means to survive. Lagos in particular has been witnessing serious impunity in recent times. The masses get handouts or income from the middle class but the middle class are also broke at the moment, reason why the hungry masses are resorting to terrorizing citizens.

    Traffic jam in Lagos has reached an unprecedented scale and you cannot guess or predict the duration of trips to any destination in Lagos anymore.

    It is a common daily occurrence for citizens to be robbed in these traffic jams with individuals losing personal belongings such as handsets, windscreens, handbags etc in recent times. These acts are being perpetuated by petty thieves and idle touts who have no means of feeding; some of them will ordinarily not go this route but out of desperation they become criminals as unemployment rate is one of the major issues we have not been able to deal with.

    It is also common to find young men in their middle to late twenties ogling at women who are old enough to be their mothers and even grandmothers, not out of love interest but so as to get some extra feeding or survival income. These set abound everywhere from concerts, to salons, clubs and even on the streets. Our remaining values are being eroded at the twinkling of an eyelid; let us save our youths as they are our future.

    Yes, we are overwhelmed with various urgent issues, but this menace will only escalate if a temporary solution is not found immediately.

    If we cannot resort to the Bread and Circuses option, and it may be unrealistic to attain 80- 100% employment at the moment; we should endeavor to provide our own version of succor to the unemployed.  Provision of at least a meal per day (without the circus) should be considered for the unemployed in every local government either through the local government authorities or through a special agency that will ensure that the meals get to the right persons, the country can afford it. This will reduce crime rate and petty robbery. This will also create employment for new sets of personnel.

     

    Of course, I am not making a case for lawlessness or male prostitution here; to me it is an aberration, it is better to provide an immediate survival alternative than to leave the menace to come back to haunt us all. We already have enough on our hands in combating sophisticated crime, let’s not increase the number.

     

    Reactions are welcome.

  • Efritin.com, committed to safer online marketplace

    Efritin.com, committed to safer online marketplace

    In a recent interview, Zakaria Hersi, Managing Director of Efritin.com,  a new online marketplace for used goods sheds light on the business, and its introduction of trust, convenience and credibility to the Nigerian market.

    What is Efritin.com?

    We are an easy-to-use, free marketplace and app where one can buy and sell almost anything. We commenced operations in Nigeria April this year and launched in August, we believe that we have a unique opportunity to be the leading online classifieds player in Nigeria.

    Why the name ‘Efritin’? Have you had a situation where someone tried to correct the spelling?

    When our parent company came into the Nigerian market, they already had experience in 3 other markets and from the experience in those countries, they realise that localising is best practice and one of the easiest ways to localise it is by the name we are called.

    Pidgin English is more of a Lingua Franca in this part of the world. We thought of what anyone would see and immediately understand; ‘Efritin’. Literally, you can buy or sell ‘Efritin’, everything, that is legal, on our site.

    How is Efritin.com different from other existing online classified platforms?

    We are different from the other players in this space and one key differentiators is how committed we are to providing a safer online marketplace for our buyers and sellers. When we were carrying out our research on Nigeria, we realized that many people are apprehensive of using online marketplaces because of the fear of being scammed; we therefore, decided to tackle this first by introducing verification of sellers on our platform. We have a dedicated Verification Team that verifies every seller on our site; we have photocopies of their valid government issued identity cards and their photographs. We combat fraud and scams proactively; we have teams in-house that review every advert before they go live. They also investigate and remove items or deals that are fraudulent in nature. So when we say we are committed to providing a safer online marketplace, these are just some examples of how we are trying to make this happen. As we grow and learn, we will continue to add to how we provide a safer marketplace for Nigerians.

    Why bring another online classified platform to Nigeria?

    At Efritin.com, we are about adding value to the market we serve. If a particular initiative is not going to solve a peculiar problem in the market, then we do not get started with it. We saw market needs that were not met by other existing online classified space in Nigeria and saw how that our coming will benefit this market place; this informed our decision to be in this market.

    What is your major focus or is it everything like the name suggests?

    Oh yes, we sell everything. But in this short time we have seen that Nigerians are most interested in jobs, vehicles, general goods, particularly electronics and renting properties.

     

    Why the focus on used goods and what’s your definition of used goods?

    Used goods are things not from the original seller. Meaning that if I buy a phone that I have not used and I am looking to sell it onwards for whatever reason, it can be termed as used good.

    Nigerians already have an existing second-hand culture meaning that when we have bought something and we have replaced or no longer have need for it, and the item still has value, we are used to either giving it away or selling it. We focus on used goods to formalise this tradition and give more people the opportunity to exchange for money goods they do not have need for. We are giving people a platform to trade items safely and securely.For example, if you have a car and probably have just bought a new one, it does not mean you will throw away the one you are replacing. The practice usually is to try to find someone else that has need for it or sell it if it is still valuable and this is where Efritin.com comes in. At Efritin.com, we focus on quality; the buyer is provided with all necessary information about items he wants to buy with clear photos of the item.

     

    You mentioned ‘Jobs’ as one of your major categories. How does it fit in as used goods?

    This is Efritin.com and a marketplace for everybody. We are addressing an issue for Nigerians who go online not only because they want to purchase shoes or bags but those looking for opportunities as well. We have approximately 5,000 job vacancies on Efritin and are adding more on a daily basis. Efritin is a great place for Nigerians to look for their next job.

    What safety measures do you have in place to protect buyers and sellers?

    Actually for the buyers and the sellers, EfritinDelivers also offers them some level of personal protection. They know that if Efritin is the one doing that last leg of their transaction for them, they don’t need to worry about their personal safety or getting scammed. Because Efritin is able to pick up the item from the sellers, deliver it to the buyer and give the money back to the seller the same day, which is convenient and helps to protect both the buyer and the seller.

     

    Efritin.com has been in the Nigerian market for about 6 months now, what are some of the challenges you encountered in the course of setting up and how were you able to solve them?

    I wouldn’t say anything unusual. We have the same traffic situation for our team members trying to get into the office; internet is not being the strongest it can be. Trying to build a brand is not easy anywhere in the world.  But it is nothing that we have not been able to handle.

    ‘Efritin Delivers’ tell me about it. How effective is it? Have you recorded any case of fraud since you commenced operations in Nigeria?

    We have individual sellers who have done over one hundred deliveries with us in less than two and a half months we started this particular service. The repeat usage is the most informative feedback we have received and it means that the service we are offering is well received and is adding value to users. Right now, the average number of deliveries recorded per day is impressive for a new classifieds platform. This shows that there was a need and Efritin.com is meeting that need.

     

    What are some of the successes you have enjoyed?

    Right now we have verified over 50,000 Verified sellers on our platform. We have over 5,000 jobs listed, over 22,000 electronics, 18,000 cars/vehicles and 12,000 Property, to mention a few. It is a huge success that people are using the site. We receive emails and calls from customers testifying on how they got the job they applied for using our platform or how they sold a number of cars in one week from the advert they placed on our site.

     

    Tell me about the Efritin model? Do users have to pay to access your platform, is there a commission involved?

    The basic services that we offer are absolutely free to use. It is free to post your items and sell them, it is free for the buyer to go there and shop. We do not charge access fees or commissions. We will be introducing premium services soon but that will not affect our basic services, as people will always be able to sell something for free on Efritin.com. The easiest way to use Efritin is via the Efritin App, which is available for free in the Appstore or Google Play store.  Buyers and sellers can also access the site from their computer or internet ready mobile devices.

     

    If everything is free, tell me how then do you make money?

    We are an online classifieds site and it is a fairly typical business model that has been replicated everywhere across the world in the Americas, Europe, Asia and even in Africa. So there are some basic ways that all classifieds make money- third party advertising and premium services. We have not introduced these yet but we will do in the near future. The truth is we are not worried about making money but to continue adding value to the marketplace we serve. When we do that, the money will come because if you don’t add value, you cannot make money.

    Looking back, what would you do differently?

    You know operationally, we started 6 months ago but officially, we launched 3 months ago. If there is anything we could have done different, it is that we should have started earlier. The reception we receive has been really great. It means that there has always been a need which we are currently meeting.

    We have seen businesses come and go in Nigeria. Tell me, how long do you intend to stay in Nigeria?

    We don’t plan to leave Nigeria. Nigeria is a great market. Our parent company, Saltside, has been in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Ghana for over 3 years. It received great growth potential in Nigeria for various reasons- the population numbers, the GDP numbers- if you even consider the overall economic conditions of the world, Nigeria has always been an attractive market. So I don’t anticipate that we will be leaving anytime soon

    So what should we expect from Efritin.com in the coming years?

    Lots more. More categories, more items, more services. We are always open to suggestions so, if you have helpful suggestions, feel free to reach our team. We are receptive, young and agile and it doesn’t take us long to start implementing things.

  • Black Friday: best deals are on today

    Black Friday, the biggest discount bonanza for shoppers, is here again. The bonanza, introduced by online shop Jumia two years ago, offers great deals to shoppers with Jumia selling double awoof vouchers which offer customers double items for their money. It  completely sold out all items way ahead of the day, an evidence that Black Friday cannot be avoided.

    Also last year, all online shopping platforms operated the Black Friday campaign and recorded positive customer reactions. This year, they have again jumped at the chance to participate again and are offering more discounts this year.

    This year’s Black Friday aims to offer more value to customers who have been amazing with extensive selection of products from top brands at best prices. On Carmudi Nigeria website, car buyers will be able to enjoy discount on a large range of cars. Managing Director, Carmudi Nigeria, Amy Muoneke, said shoppers should expect very affordable cars and discounts on items they buy. “At Carmudi Nigeria, we will be rewarding car dealers with discount advertising and car buyers with affordable cars. The aim of Black Friday is to make affordable cars available to car buyers. From today, individual car sellers who want to see their cars through the Carmudi website will pay a discounted fee of 2,000 only for as long as that particular car is available for sale”

    Jovago Nigeria, an online hotel booking platform promises unbelievable discounts of up to 50 per cent on selected hotel rooms on offer. Its Head of Public Relations, Ohaedoghasi Rita told The Nation Shopping that every customer who books with them will get the best price on every room.

    On the Jumia website, there are vouchers, special deals to say thank you to esteemed customers for their loyalty. Supermart.ng offers up to 30percent discount on hundreds of grocery items when customers buy items worth N10,000.

    The Communications Officer of Supermart, Tayo Alofun said, “hundreds of grocery and everyday essential items have been discounted to rock bottom prices for our customers. Customers can select these and more online and receive delivery to their homes and offices across Lagos”.

    To access the deal, customers will simply have to log on to supermart.ng, select various desired items from the widest range of groceries in Nigeria and enter the voucher code SUPERDEAL to receive their instant N3,000 discount.

    Easy taxi will be giving out better ride in terms of ease, reliability, comfort and safety. Shoppers can get N2000 off Taxi Ride today by downloading the Easy Taxi app on android or iPhone, and use the code ETBlackFriday.  Senior Public Relation & Communications Associate, Tracy E. Oyekanmi said “Over the last six months, we’ve worked hard to gather feedback and listen to our customer’s concerns and needs, and we’ve revamped the entire Easy Taxi experience. And our aim is to allow more people in Lagos experience a ride on Easy Taxi at a lower risk to attract prospective customers.”

    On Kaymu.com, shoppers who patronise the Kaymu’s Black Friday Store access to items at prices they never imagined possible. In addition Kaymu has thrown in free delivery on purchases within Lagos to ensure people enjoy the best possible shopping experience this Black Friday.

    Tomiwa Oladele, Head PR & Offline Marketing said: “As a brand which is passionate about fulfilling our customers desires, Black Friday gives us the opportunity to connect our community of buyers and sellers  in an exciting shopping experience. Through this campaign we hope to add value to our customers by giving them the opportunity to fulfill their wish list within their budget and position Kaymu as a brand where people can get affordable items all year round.”

    She added: “We are fulfilled at the knowledge that through the Black Friday campaign we will be able to provide value to our new and existing customers by giving them the opportunity to shop massive discounts as well as provide revenue for our community of sellers who are expected to triple their sales during this period.”

    Hellofood. com, will double its volume of orders and  empower its consumers with great savings. The online food store will offer its consumers via its partner’s restaurants an entire day of tremendously low price food deals with up to 50per cent discount as well as free delivery on all food orders from any restaurant.

    Its Public Relations Executive, Kike Ojo said: “Consumers’ will be able to order from over 250 restaurants on the hellofood platform, there will be new cuisines at  reduced price and fast food delivery at no extra cost.

    At Yudala, there will be location-specific sales which will kick off from 8:00 am today at Ikeja, Festac and Surulere, 9:00 am at Lekki and 10:00 am at Apapa while the online sales starts by 12 midnight. The mega-fest will continue with the Yudala Cyber Monday on November 30 where shoppers can shop non-stop at eye-popping prices.

    Autogenious is giving out whopping discounts on insurance and AA rescue products.

    They are giving out 10 percent of car insurance premium for a year.