Ecobank launches MyMall online trading platform for SME Businesses

 Ecobank Nigeria in collaboration with Netplus Advisory services has launched an online trading platform, MyMall Nigeria.  This is essentially for the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) operators to sell and market their goods and services. The online mall is designed for all categories of products and can be accessed from any part of the world.

Speaking at the launch in Lagos last week, Deputy Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Tony Okpanachi, said the decision to set up MyMall Nigeria was to provide a platform for SMEs customers of the bank to tap into the enormous opportunities in e-commerce sphere and take their businesses to a higher level, as it would provide a wider access to sell their products and offer their services to the whole world.

In his words: “Ecobank is bringing this opportunity to our SMEs because we believe that business will significantly move from the brick and mortar to online presence. We are confident that our customers will not be left behind; MyMall, Nigeria will equip you to have an online presence and be relevant in the market place of this age.” Okpanachi was optimistic that the Bank’s branch network in the country and presence in 36 African countries, would be an added advantage to participants at the mall, stressing that, payment across borders was been worked on.

In his opening remark, Business Executive, Business Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, Kingsley Umadia, said MyMall Nigeria could not have come at a better time, assuring that the online marketing space powered by Ecobank will provide tools for trade for the SMEs to succeed.

On the operations of MyMall Nigeria, Ecobank Nigeria’s Head SME/Value Chain Banking, Sunkanmi Olowo, explained that the online platform is open to every member of the Ecobank SME Club. Non-members are encouraged to apply as enlisting is currently free. Speaking further, Olowo said “as at today, 62 SME operators have enlisted onto MyMall. It is a one stop online mall for buyers and sellers to fulfill their needs for selling and buying online. Enrolment on to the platform is currently free but minimal fees may be introduced later. Working with our partners, we have taken care of every aspect that will make it a success. The Mall also has partnership with FEDEX to ensure timely and safe delivery of goods.”

He noted that unlike other existing malls, registered merchants would have access to own personalized web store, have logistic support for the delivery of goods purchased on line, inventory management system and a secure payment platforms for goods. They will also have international trade opportunities to market their products to the whole world and collect sales proceeds with ease. The platform will also be supported with digital marketing solutions, provideopportunities for business to business, business-to-consumer and consumer-to-consumer sales, among others.