Home Hospitality Travel
Category:

Travel

NewsTravel

Uber ChapChap Expands Footprint To Kisumu

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Today, Uber announced the launch of its low cost mobility option, Uber ChapChap in Kisumu with minimum fares starting at just Ksh 150.

The launch unlocks more earning opportunities for drivers and gives residents increased reliable ways of moving around the city safely. 

Imran Manji, Head of East Africa Uber said that the launch of Uber ChapChap in Kisumu provides a more economical and greener way to travel around the city.

“As Kisumu is the third largest city in Kenya, the new offering opens up opportunities for drivers to increase their earnings and gives residents more flexibility and security when travelling around the city.”

 

With the cost of living rising globally, the Uber business model allows drivers to maintain their independent status, whilst providing them with increased flexibility and earnings. Uber plays a key role within the economy and has already provided thousands of sustainable economic opportunities across Kenya.

 

Michael Wanga, Kisumu City Manager added that Kisumu is transforming and is going through a significant transition, which involves mobility and transportation systems to cater for growth of the city.

The arrival of Uber will enhance security in our mobility systems.

Riders will still be able to see all driver details, such as their licence plate number, name and photo, before taking the trip. With a strict onboarding process, all drivers are required to have the necessary licences and go through a thorough background check before being allowed to use the app.

Riders and drivers also have access to the Safety Toolkit which houses all of Uber’s safety features such as an in-app emergency button, Trusted Contacts and Share My Trip. These features all increase transparency, accountability and peace of mind for all users on the app. 

To request an Uber ChapChap trip, riders need to simply open the app, tap on Uber ChapChap and select their preferred payment option. Riders can see a driver’s rating, which indicates others’ experiences and provides transparency. For ease of communication, riders can contact their driver through the app or via phone.  

“Uber’s goal is to be a partner to cities supporting them in their growth, by providing innovative mobility options. We are more committed than ever to playing a critical role in complementing existing public transportation infrastructure, whilst creating more economic opportunities for Kenyans”, adds Imran Manji.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
PrideInn Paradise
HospitalityTravel

Experience the Ultimate Paradise

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort is a luxurious hotel nestled on the pristine shores of Mombasa, Kenya. This breathtaking paradise offers an exceptional experience for guests seeking a unique blend of comfort, luxury, and unparalleled hospitality.

From the moment you step into the hotel, you are welcomed by a warm and friendly staff that is committed to making your stay unforgettable.

With its stunning ocean views and lush tropical gardens, PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

This resort boasts of 250 well-appointed guest rooms and suites that are tastefully furnished with modern amenities and plush bedding to ensure maximum comfort. Whether you are travelling alone, with your family, or on a romantic getaway, there is something for everyone at this resort.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort has a wide range of options to choose from. You can take a dip in the crystal-clear swimming pool, play a game of tennis, or try out some water sports such as jet-skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The hotel also offers a well-equipped fitness center and a spa where you can indulge in a relaxing massage or other treatments.

If you are a foodie, you will be spoilt for choice at PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort. The hotel features several restaurants and bars that serve a variety of local and international cuisines, including fresh seafood, barbecues, and exotic cocktails.

You can also enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach while watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

In addition to its world-class amenities and services, PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort is committed to environmental sustainability.

The hotel has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote responsible tourism, such as using solar energy and recycling waste.

Overall, PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort is the ultimate destination for those seeking a luxurious and unforgettable holiday experience.

Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, this hotel will exceed your expectations and leave you with unforgettable memories. So book your stay today and discover the paradise that awaits you in Mombasa.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Tourism recovery accelerates to reach 65% of pre-pandemic levels
AfricaTourismTravel

Tourism Recovery Accelerates To 65% Of Pre-Pandemic Levels

by Ndungu Brian
written by Ndungu Brian

An estimated 700 million tourists traveled internationally between January and September, more than double the number recorded for the same period in 2021.

This equates to 63% of 2019 levels and puts the sector on course to reach 65% of its pre-pandemic levels this year, in line with UNWTO scenarios. Results were boosted by strong pent-up demand, improved confidence levels and the lifting of restrictions in an increasing number of destinations.

Highlighting the speed at which the sector has recovered from the worst crisis in its history, the latest World Tourism Barometer from UNWTO reveals that monthly arrivals were 64% below 2019 levels in January 2022 and had reached -27% by September. An estimated 340 million international arrivals were recorded in the third quarter of 2022 alone, almost 50% of the nine-month total.

Europe continues to lead the global recovery

Europe continues to lead the rebound of international tourism. The region welcomed 477 million international arrivals in January-September 2022 (68% of the world total), hitting 81% of pre-pandemic levels. This was more than double that of 2021 (+126%) with results boosted by strong intra-regional demand and travel from the United States. Europe saw a particularly robust performance in Q3 when arrivals reached almost 90% of 2019 levels.

At the same time, the Middle East saw international arrivals more than triple (+225%) year on year in January-September 2022, climbing to 77% of pre-pandemic levels. Africa (+166%) and the Americas (+106%) also recorded strong growth compared to 2021, reaching 63% and 66% of 2019 levels, respectively.

In Asia and the Pacific (+230%) arrivals more than tripled in the first nine months of 2022, reflecting the opening of many destinations, including Japan at the end of September. However, arrivals in Asia and the Pacific remained 83% below 2019 levels. China, a key source market for the region, remains closed.

Arrivals and receipts at – or above – pre-pandemic levels

Africa (+166%) and the Americas (+106%) also recorded strong growth compared to 2021, reaching 63% and 66% of 2019 levels, respectively

Several subregions reached 80% to 90% of their pre-pandemic arrivals in January-September 2022. Western Europe (88%) and Southern Mediterranean Europe (86%) saw the fastest recovery toward 2019 levels. The Caribbean, Central America (both 82%) and Northern Europe (81%) also recorded strong results.

Destinations reporting arrivals above pre-pandemic levels in the nine months through September include Albania, Ethiopia, Honduras, Andorra, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Colombia, El Salvador and Iceland.

In the month of September, arrivals surpassed pre-pandemic levels in the Middle East (+3% over 2019) and the Caribbean (+1%). They came close in Central America (-7%), Northern Europe (-9%) and Southern and Mediterranean Europe (-10%).

Meanwhile, some destinations recorded notable increases in international tourism receipts in the first seven to nine months of 2022, including Serbia, Romania, Türkiye, Latvia, Portugal, Pakistan, Mexico, Morocco and France.

The recovery can also be seen in outbound tourism spending from major source markets, with strong results from France where expenditure reached -8% through September, compared to 2019. Other markets reporting strong spending in the first six to nine months of 2022 were Germany, Belgium, Italy, the United States, Qatar, India and Saudi Arabia.

Strong demand for air travel and hotel accommodation

The robust recovery of tourism is also reflected in various industry indicators such as air capacity and hotel metrics, as recorded in the UNWTO Tourism Recovery Tracker. Air seat capacity on international routes (measured in available seat kilometers or ASKs) in January-August reached 62% of 2019 levels, with Europe (78%) and the Americas (76%) posting the strongest results. Worldwide domestic capacity rose to 86% of 2019 levels, with the Middle East (99%) virtually achieving pre-pandemic levels (IATA).

Meanwhile, according to STR, global hotel occupancy rates reached 66% in September 2022, from 43% in January. Europe led the way with occupancy levels at 77% in September 2022, following rates of 74% in July and August. The Americas (66%), the Middle East (63%) and Africa (61%) all saw occupancy rates above 60% in September. By subregion, Southern Mediterranean Europe (79%), Western Europe (75%) and Oceania (70%) showed the highest occupancy rates in September 2022.

Cautious optimism for the months ahead

The challenging economic environment, including persistently high inflation and soaring energy prices, aggravated by the Russian offensive in Ukraine, could weigh on the pace of recovery in Q4 and into 2023.

The latest survey among the UNWTO Panel of Tourism Experts shows a downgrade in confidence levels for the last four months of 2022, reflecting more cautious optimism. Despite growing challenges pointing to a softening of the recovery pace, export revenues from tourism could reach USD 1.2 to 1.3 trillion in 2022, a 60-70% increase over 2021, or 70-80% of the USD 1.8 trillion recorded in 2019.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
AviationBusinessTravel

Kenya Airways To Begin Four Direct Flights From Mombasa-Dubai

by Ndungu Brian
written by Ndungu Brian

Kenya Airways will commence operating four direct flights from Mombasa to Dubai, United Arab Emirates beginning December 15, 2022.

The flights on the new route were scheduled to start at the beginning of December but were affected by the just concluded pilot’s strike.

According to KQ, the introduction of the Mombasa-Dubai route has been necessitated by rising ticket demand; the commencement of flights is expected to boost the Kenyan coastal region tourism industry through direct access to and from the Middle East.

“The introduction of this route is key and strategic as it will open up the Kenya coastal region, boost the tourism and hospitality industry as well as stimulate trade to the coastal city. This launch is part of Kenya Airways network expansion strategy and commitment towards supporting the recovery of the tourism and hospitality industry in Kenya,” said Julius Thairu, Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer Officer.

Thairu noted that the route will give tourists from the Middle East, Russia, Northern Europe and Australia direct access to the coast region tourism and hospitality industry.

The Mombasa- Dubai route is further expected to attract travelers to the Middle East for holiday and religious trips.

“The region’s traders of electronics, clothes and other consumer goods will also benefit from the belly cargo capacity that will be available on the flight.”

Additionally, the flights offer increased capacity for direct exports of seafood and fresh produce directly to the Middle East.

Mombasa to Dubai flights will depart from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and make a stop in Mombasa’s Moi International Airport to pick up additional passengers.

The four flights will increase KQ frequencies to Dubai to 14 times per week from the current 10.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uber expands service operations in Kenyan market
BusinessNewsTravel

Uber Expands Service Operations In Kenyan Market

by Ndungu Brian
written by Ndungu Brian

Uber launches Audio Recording feature the latest addition to its suite of safety features among its multiple new products and features.

The launch took place simultaneously across various locations in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and will be going live this month in South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, General Manager for Uber SSA, Kagiso Khaole said the brand is pleased to be expanding into eight more cities during September across Kenya, Nigeria and Ghana.

“As we gear ourselves to mark our 10th year anniversary next year, we are excited about moving into more cities enabling people to go anywhere and can get anything. Our commitment to raising the bar on safety remains relentless and we continue to work hard to grow the over 3 million earnings opportunities we have created thus far.”

Eight new cities and counting

Uber launches a suite of new product and safety features across Sub-Saharan Africa

Uber will now be operational in Owerri and Akure in Nigeria; Eldoret, Kisumu, Nakuru and Naivasha in Kenya; and Tamale and Sunyani in Ghana.

These expansions are testament to Uber’s commitment to the region and signal more opportunities for more drivers to earn, while riders have convenient and reliable travel options at the tap of a button. In these expansions Uber brings a diverse product mix that is able to best serve the needs of the city residents.

More economical options for riders

Uber launches a suite of new product and safety features across Sub-Saharan Africa

To help reduce costs for riders and increase demand for drivers, Uber is launching UberX Share in Ghana and Nigeria, and Uber ChapChap Share in Kenya. Uber’s shared rides offering allows riders to save up to 30% of the trip fare when matched with a co-rider heading in the same direction, and where a match is not possible, they will still be able to save 5% from their ride.

“The introduction of UberX Share allows us to proudly demonstrate the power of our platform, understanding the ability to match rider destinations while delivering convenience and affordability. We are a global company that builds locally; and in Ghana, we tapped into the local culture of car-pooling when moving around, which makes this product a great fit for the market,” says Khaole.

Travelling across the city with an entire crew has never been easier, with the launch of UberXL in Nairobi, Kenya. This option provides seating for up to six people which is great for airport and business trips where extra luggage space may be required. In South Africa, riders can now reserve their group travel 30 days in advance with UberXL Reserve and Uber Van Reserve.

Taking a stand for safety

Uber launches a suite of new product and safety features across Sub-Saharan Africa

“Safety is at the core of how we do business and we are proud to announce three new safety features to help improve the experience of users”, says Khaole.

  • Audio Recording pilot in South Africa: Uber will now allow riders and drivers to use the app to record and share audio of their trip as evidence in the case of a safety incident – something that drivers have been asking for based on their feedback from roundtable sessions. This new opt-in audio recording feature, which is being piloted in Pretoria and Johannesburg, has been successful in the US and Latin American regions where Uber has a presence.
  • In-app emergency service in Nigeria: Uber is working with Sety in Nigeria, to provide on-demand security and medical response for riders and drivers while on a trip. This collaboration will also provide access to a private security response unit closest to their location, using a connected device.
  • Safety Check Up across SSA: This feature encourages riders to complete their safety profile by turning on and utilising the available features such as Trusted Contacts, PIN verification and RideCheck. This is available in all the countries within SSA where Uber operates.

Delivery innovations

Uber launches a suite of new product and safety features across Sub-Saharan Africa

At the launch, Uber Eats reinforced its aspiration of building an app of the future by creating a virtual mall experience that goes beyond just food. “Other categories we have ventured into include convenience stores, pharmacy outlets, alcohol and retail and this shows us that the possibilities are endless,” says Cikida Gcali-Mabusela, Head of New Verticals for Uber Eats Sub-Saharan Africa.

Uber Eats continues to push beyond boundaries with the adoption of the growing trend of dark stores, which gives non-traditional merchants opportunities to tap into unchartered markets that they wouldn’t have easily accessed.

Uber Eats currently operates in South Africa and Kenya. Kui Mbugua, General Manager for Uber Eats Kenya says, ‘With a 67% year on year growth of subscriptions on Eats, we are humbled and encouraged by expansion that we have seen in the South Africa and Kenya markets.

“The future of logistics and technology in emerging markets looks promising. Our overall vision continues to be to build locally using global experience and become a one-stop-shop for delivery needs. Not only is Uber Eats creating unique earning earning opportunities, but our operations also have a positive knock-on effect for restaurants, merchants, and delivery people. Looking ahead, we are committed to leading the category by investing in product and access, while leveraging the power of the platform,” concludes Kui.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NewsTravel

‘I Am Not Backing Down” The Unapologetic Caroline Mutoko

by Ndungu Brian
written by Ndungu Brian

Former radio presenter Caroline Mutoko has vowed not to back down on her ‘anti-PSVs’ on the Nairobi Expressway views that left many Kenyans chattering on Twitter.

This is following her remarks on allowing PSV to operate on the now operational Nairobi Expressway a move that she termed as disastrous.

“Wait, we now have matatus on the Expressway? Courting trouble…” she tweeted.

However, her reaction elicited a lot of negative remarks from Kenyans On Twitter (KOT) with most of them castigating and trolling the celebrated media personality.

In a video she shared on Youtube, Mutoko called out on everyone who dismissed her remarks and affirmed that indeed the Expressway is Courting trouble which if not addressed will be disastrous

She further dismissed claims that she is opposed to having PSVs on the expressway but rather concerned about the safety of people using it.

“As Nairobians we are grossly in discipline, and PSV,s in Nairobi are massively indiscipline, there is absolutely no problem having them on the expressway but on the condition that their speed governors are back on, It should be a prerequisite for PSVs to have a speed governor on the expressway,” she said

According to her, matatus should only be allowed on the Expressway on two conditions; installation of speed governors and punitive fines for the law breakers so that they can be kept in check.

“Slow down! I hope somebody is working on punitive fines for the Expressway, And I hope it looks something like Ksh 20k or Ksh10K. Because we can’t be trusted to behave. We have already proved it,” she stated.

Mutoko insisted that it is not about the vehicles as most people are insinuating but about the passengers.

“Tunangoja siku ile gari itatoka uko juu, iende chini, mark my words,” Mutoko warned.

“You will not get me to back down on one thing. Stop giving nonsense, when I say we are courting trouble, we are, and you know am right. Shame on you for making this about anything but lives. This is about lives and the fact that we are blood-letting on this Expressway. Kabla we wake up and get serious, tutaua wengi,” Caroline Mutoko stated.

Her remarks come barely a few hours after another accident happened at the Westlands entrance where a Super Metro bus overturned after hitting a guardrail while evading hitting another vehicle.

The accident happens, barely two days after an Embasava Sacco bus was involved in another accident at Mlolongo toll station.

Mutoko absolutely has a point……

https://youtu.be/Z3C6HZ7JJUg?t=5

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NewsTravel

NMS Begins Trials At The New Green Park Terminus

by Ndungu Brian
written by Ndungu Brian

The Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) has begun testing the Green Park Terminus with the public service vehicles.

The test run is being done in two phases with the first phase involving public service vehicles (PSVs) terminating at Railways Station while the second one will involve matatus plying Ngong and Langata Roads and is set to run until Sunday, June 26, 2022, when further communication will be done by the Nairobi Metropolitan Services.

Police started the enforcement very early in the morning at the Bunyala Roundabout where they diverted all matatus towards the Bunyala Road heading to Upperhill.

Only personal vehicles and heavy commercial vehicles were permitted to access Uhuru Highway from the Bunyala Roundabout.

Wednesday’s test run was meant to only be for matatu from Rongai, Kiseran, Ngong, Karen, Langata, Nairobi West/Madaraka, Kibra, Kawangware, Dagoretti/Satellite, Kilimani, Highrise/Ngumo and Kikuyu.

Matatus from Langata Road on reaching Nyayo Stadium are expected to join Uhuru Highway to Bunyala Roundabout where they will turn left and take Lower Hill Road.

From Lower Hill, they will join Haile Selassie Avenue, turn left for a few meters and make a new U-turn, which has been constructed to filter traffic, before joining the Green Park.

Matatus also have an option of heading to the Mortuary Roundabout and joining Ngong Road then taking the usual road to Kenya National Library and NHIF area and entering the Green Park through the dedicated lane.

The trial run comes after three failed test runs at the terminus, located at the former Lunar Park, last year.

The new development follows a meeting between NMS and transport stakeholders in the city Thursday last week as part of final preparations for the commissioning of the terminal.

“We will start the trial run in two phases with the first phase involving PSVs terminating at Railways and the second involving PSVs plying Ngong Road and Langata Road,” said NMS Director of Transport Engineer Michael Ochieng.

“These phases will be trial-runs and not the main commissioning our teams will be doing the rehearsals. When we complete the trials, we will go for an appropriate date for official commissioning,” he added.

The new terminus can accommodate between 300 and 350 vehicles at any one time, processing about 1,000 PSVs per hour and up to 20,000 per day.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
TourismTravel

Kenyans Urged To Apply Early For Visa To Beat The Surge In Demand

by Ndungu Brian
written by Ndungu Brian

Opening of international borders, relaxation of travel restrictions, resumption of international flights, widespread vaccination and reopening of in-campus classes by overseas universities are the major contributors to the increase in outbound traffic from Kenya this year.

Locations like Australia, Canada and Schengen regions are witnessing positive trends in application volumes for outbound travel in the year so far.

VFS Global, the world’s largest visa outsourcing and technology service specialist for governments & their diplomatic missions worldwide, services 13 client governments in Nairobi, Kenya through its Application Centres.

Some of the key visa application trends VFS Global has observed this year in Kenya are as follows:

  • Application volumes from Jan to Apr 22 have neared the total application count for the year 2021
  • Applications for Jan to Apr 22 period nearly thrice in comparison to the same period last year

 

With most countries accepting visa applications up to 90 days (3 months) before the date of travel, applicants need to apply for their visas way in advance, especially during this period when outbound travel demand is increasing.

According to the revised Schengen Visa Code, effective 02 February 2020, you can apply for a Schengen visa up to 6 months before your date of travel.

Elaborating on this important point of applying in advance to beat the peak, Mr Hariprasad Viswanathan, Head – Sub Saharan Africa at VFS Global, said“ When planning your travels, people always book flights and hotels in advance. We advise applicants to do the same for visas. Seeing the surge in demand for outbound travel this year and with limited appointment slots available, we encourage our applicants to apply for their visas as early as possible. Be sure to carry all the requisite documentation, including a printout of the checklist, to submit along with the duly filled application form.”

Just like applying for a visa in advance, it is recommended that applicants must check their passport’s validity before planning an international trip. Many countries require a valid passport six months beyond your return date. Keeping such requirements in mind, VFS Global has listed a series of common queries so that applicants can beat the peak and travel with ease:

Kenyans are urged to apply early for Visa to beat the surge in demand for outbound travel

  • What are the typical turnaround timelines for visas?

Please be advised that the visa processing timelines vary country-wise.  For the understanding of our applicants, the respective country specifics websites provide the information required to apply for your visa well in advance. We would like to caution applicants that in this period of increased outbound travel demand, visa processing could take longer than anticipated. Hence we recommend that applicants must apply early.

  • What is VFS Global’s role in the visa process?

VFS Global manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visas, passport and consular, identity and citizen services for governments. This allows diplomatic missions (i.e., embassies/consulates) to effectively manage their time and resources and focus on the critical task of assessing visa applications and making decisions.

  • What is the appointment allotment process at VFS Global?

Appointment slots are offered online based on the volume of demand or forecast, and in conjunction with the Embassy’s own internal capacity planning. Once scheduled, we highly recommend applicants to be at the Centre 15 minutes before the appointed time to avoid missing your slot.

We strongly advise all applicants to be careful of touts and fraudulent parties who falsely promise early appointment bookings in exchange for payment.

  • How do I track the status of my application?

Once your application is submitted, you can opt for the SMS service, and receive timely updates on your application’s progress through VFS Global’s online tracking service. The status will be updated as soon as your passport is ready for collection/delivery. Please note that we cannot track your application during the assessment process within an Embassy or Consulate.

  • Can VFS Global offer me advice and guidance on visa categories and vaccination?

No, we do not provide advice or guidance on visa category or any other visa requirement that the applicants may need nor do we comment on vaccine requirements. All travellers are requested to check the destination/transit country guidelines for the same.

  • Can I expedite the process? Does availing of any of the value-added services guarantee a faster visa outcome?

The time taken for visa processing differs with each mission. We recommend you check the turnaround timelines before applying. Opting for any optional, value-added services (such as Prime Time Services or Form-filling, or any other service) does not guarantee a quicker or more positive decision by the concerned Embassy/Consulate.

On the other hand, these premium services like Visa at your doorstep have seen a significant increase this year as more and more applicants seek ease and convenience these services offer in their travel planning, at an additional cost.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NewsTravel

Uber Announces Review On Fare Prices

by Jacky Muraba
written by Jacky Muraba

Uber Kenya has announced a review on its fare prices in the next two weeks, in response to rising fuel prices in Kenya.

This is after Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced a Ksh.9 price per litre increase for diesel, kerosene and super petrol on June 14th 2022.

Uber head of East Africa Imran Manji said the company is working on a price review to factor in the recent fuel rise and find a “sweet spot between not destroying demand by pricing and ensuring that drivers cover their costs.”

“It’s a difficult situation in the market right now because as the cost of living of everybody goes up, the affordability of things like ride-hailing comes into question. If we raise our prices too high we are limiting how many people are going to be using our services and also limiting the driver of earnings,” said Manji as quoted by Business Daily.

EPRA’s latest announcement came as a fuel shock to Kenyans who are already grappling with a higher cost of living in the country.

Uber’s review is set to ensure its drivers are able to earn and sustain themselves even with the high prices currently being experienced within the country.

Digital taxi drivers from Uber and Bolt have in the past complained about high fuel prices eating into their earnings, forcing them to unearth other sources of income in order to sustain themselves.

This will be Uber’s second review after another was made in February when fuel prices went up by Ksh.5 per litre.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NewsTechnologyTravel

‘Little’ the taxi-hailing app ventures into the logistics market

by Ndungu Brian
written by Ndungu Brian
According to a statement by the cab CEO, Kamal Budhabhatti, the development follows a successful run-in corporate can-hailing launched a few years ago. Little is currently piloting the service with two corporate customers; its commercial launch is expected to be announced during the first week of June 2022.
Little is not the only company taking advantage of the huge need for logistics services. Other companies have been in the space for an extended period, including Sendy which even offers fulfillment services. On the other hand, Little is not offering fulfillment for the moment.“We learned and mastered the art of Corporate Ride-Hailing – and became a dominant player. Now it’s time to learn again,” said CEO Kamal

“Launching Little Logistics. City, Intercity, and Cross border. Little App. Super excited. I can’t stop thinking about how great our team is. We have several customers on Little who have been demanding such service and telling us that services and products from other providers are not up to the mark compared to Little services. So, we realized the need” Kamal added.

The service will be accessed via a Corporate Portal. It will also be available on the Little app just as an extension.

The first phase of the product will serve customers in major towns in Kenya. There are also plans to expand the service regionally.

This comes months after the company announced a partnership with leading cinema outlets in the country to offer movie tickets. The deal allows customers to book tickets on the Little Cab app and get snacks and free rides to and from the movie theatre.

The firm, targeting alternative revenue streams, has partnered with Century Cinemax – with theatres at Sarit, Junction, and Garden City malls, Anga -Diamond and Sky Panari, and Motion Cinemas.

Little CEO Kamal said that the feature would save on time used to browser different movie platforms to buy tickets.

“We have made it easier for our customers to book movie tickets and snacks from wherever they are through this new offering. You will be able to view the movie trailer before booking your ticket,” said Mr. Budhabhatti.

Little is leveraging on its existing network and customer base to break into the segment, recovering from the Covid-19 impact and facing threats from piracy and competition from online streaming services such as Netflix and Showmax.

The industry depends on tickets sold, with the revenues divided among the movie distributors, cinema, and the studio.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts
OKB price
5909.46 KES+1.8%