iSmart, one of SA's latest entrants into the mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) space, with the SmartMobile offering, has purchased Jabba Connect, a provider of contact centre solutions, for an undisclosed amount.
The companies have concluded a commercial agreement which will see iSmart collect payments from Jabba's 60 000 customers.
Andre Geboers, CEO of iSmart, says the acquisition not only provides a 200-seat call centre but will enhance the security and sustainability of the iSmart business, along with improving the long-term experience and retention of the group's customer base.
Cape Town-based iSmart is part of the Digicall Group.
Jabba Connect was established to provide finance for portable consumer technology. The operation was launched in November 2010, and its functions include sales through an internal outbound sales call centre, fulfilment, collections and after-sales service.
"Jabba Connect's team have strong experience within the cellular industry, and with that, we look forward to a sustained increase in the growth of the SmartMobile offering," says Geboers.
"Our MVNO is in the early stages of growth. That said, it is successful with good take up. We will disclose subscriber numbers at a later stage," he adds.
SmartMobile was launched in July and it piggybacks on the Cell C network. In November last year, ITWeb reported SmartMobile was working with former Virgin Mobile boss Steve Bailey's mobile virtual network enabler MVN-X to bring South African consumers the new mobile service this year.
Geboers believes the Jabba transaction will enable faster growth in the MVNO, due to complementary service offerings. "Call centres are an integral part of our market strategy going forward."
Under the deal, Jabba Connect will continue to provide its expertise and resources in offering innovative solutions for customers in the cellular space.
"The only integration right now will happen on a back-office level. Other operations will continue as is for now," Geboers clarifies.
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