Standard Bank announces MVNO collaboration with MTN

Standard Bank has unveiled a new Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) partnership with MTN, enabling its South African customers to access MTN's extensive network coverage nationwide.

Rebranded as Standard Bank Connect, the bank's telecommunication division will introduce a variety of new data and voice packages. Kartik Mistry, Executive Head of Standard Bank MVNO, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with MTN, stating, “We are excited to collaborate with MTN and the opportunity to provide our customers with a range of newly differentiated mobile plans. The transition will be gradual, where we invite our customers to join us on our pilot program, helping us to build meaningful services together and experiencing Standard Bank on MTN’s wide network.”

Since launching its MVNO offering in 2018, Standard Bank has attracted over 300,000 mobile customers, who have benefitted significantly from receiving bank fees as Airtime based on their engagement with the bank’s products and services.

MTN South Africa's Chief Wholesale Officer, Quintus de Beer, expressed MTN's commitment to the partnership, saying, “Consistently voted SA's Best Network, MTN is delighted to partner with Standard Bank, a trusted brand in South Africa and across the African continent. Our aim is to create shared value by placing our partners at the centre of all we do whilst fulfilling our vision that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life. To this end, we are committed to providing a proven, quality digital network and affordable mobile and network solutions.”

As part of its initiative to connect communities, Standard Bank offers two primary connectivity packages: Connected Circle and Connected Gigs Plans. The Connected Circle Plans, which include options such as Starter, Lite, Plus, and Pro, cater to customers needing both voice and data connectivity. These plans offer unlimited calls to selected numbers within one's community and inclusive data, promoting flexibility and enhancing connectivity.

For those who prioritize data, the Connected Gigs Plans deliver high-value data bundles at competitive prices, with options to purchase airtime bundles for voice and SMS usage.

Additionally, Standard Bank Connect customers can enjoy up to 50% discounts on tech accessories through a partnership with Dress Your Tech for qualifying Connected Circle and Connected Gigs plans.

Key features of the new offerings include:

- **Month-to-month flexibility:** All plans are monthly, but customers can commit to their plan for 3, 6, or 12 months for additional incentives.

- **Auto top-up:** Ensures continuous data access with no expiration on topped-up data.

- **R1 Promotion:** For a limited time, customers can subscribe to any plan for R1 and enjoy full inclusive value until the first billing date. Currently, plans are available online, with availability in selected branches expected soon.

“Standard Bank Connect represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing our customers with end-to-end connectivity solutions that are tailored to offer more simplicity, more value, and greater flexibility,” Mistry added.