Looks like mobile money is becoming the most preferred method of payment in the world as a Dutch fashion retailer, Suitsupply has added Kenyan Mobile Money transfer service Safaricom’s M-Pesa, Airtel Money and yuCash on its online payment options, reflecting increasing acceptance of mobile phone-based money for international transactions.
The men’s fashion chain says customers can now pay using mobile money in addition to credit cards and PayPal options.
In September, Suitsupply launched an online shopping portal targeting high-end shoppers on the continent and what better way of making Africa a valuable market other than including Mobile money.
The firm says the introduction of M-Pesa as a payment option would make “online shopping as seamless as it would be in Europe or the US.”
“We are tailoring our services to each country’s specific needs hence the introduction of M-Pesa, yuCash and Airtel Money for Kenya,” said Fokke de Jong, the chief executive and founder of Suitsupply.
“In Kenya, billions of shillings are transacted through mobile money and that is why it is almost natural for us to introduce M-Pesa as one of the payment options on the website,” said Tania Habimana, the Suitsupply business development manager for sub-Sahara Africa. “Customers will make payments through a pay bill number and input the transaction code on the website when checking out. Delivery will be made within four days of making the purchase.”
The fashion chain, which has received glowing reviews from publications like the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times, manufactures and sells suits, shirts, bags, shoes, jackets and ties as well as other accessories.
Suitsupply says it is searching for a local partner to set up a store in Kenya.