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Starmobile steps closer to Pinoys via sari-sari stores
POSTED BY: Lionell Go Macahilig2018-06-13 15:00:00 PHT
A Filipino company that fully understands the needs of Filipino consumers and how to reach them, Starmobile, the mobile subsidiary of Star Telecom Alliance Resources, Inc. (STAR, Inc.), recently announced that its devices are now available in more than 900 sari-sari stores across the Philippines.
“By making Starmobile phones available in sari-sari stores all over the country, we are making it more convenient for Filipinos from all walks of life to avail of affordably-priced mobile devices,” said Starmobile Sales and Marketing Head Ardie Balderrama. “At the same time, it also allows us to work with and empower micro enterprises within communities.”
Starmobile products are now sold in the following stores: Mr. D in Atimonan, Quezon; Double Barrel in Sta. Cruz, Laguna; Abay Sari-Sari Store in Naga City, Bicol; Hi ACE Sari Sari Store in San Bartolome and CJ Loading Station in Pingkian Sauyo, both establishments are located in Novaliches, Quezon City.
In line with this initiative, Starmobile provides personel of these stores with in-depth training and marketing materials like posters, signages, and storefront materials. Moreover, Starmobile has begun strengthening its presence in Smart and Sun Cellular Satellite Stores and Transport Groups nationwide.
Voyager's freenet on Starmobile phones
Speaking of Smart, STAR, Inc. also partnered with the telco giant's subsidiary, Voyager Innovations, Inc., to provide Starmobile users with free Internet access, an undeniably essential need among Filipino consumers.
Out of the box, latest Starmobile Android smartphones are pre-loaded with Voyager's freenet app. With this 100% free-to-use app (Smart SIM required), users can visit whitelisted sites such as Lazada, PayMaya, Philippine Airlines, and Philippine Star, among others. Users may also participate in missions where they can get points and exchange them for free Smart, Sun, TNT, or Globe prepaid packages.
Freenet is initially available on Starmobile UP Xtreme and will be rolled out on upcoming models.
From left to right: Hatch Business and Brand Management Head Heidi Garayblas, Voyager Vice President Dindo Marzan, Starmobile COO Michael Chen, and Starmobile Sales and Marketing Head Ardie Balderrama.
The UP Xtreme is the first Starmobile smartphone pre-loaded with freenet.
A screenshot of Voyager's freenet app.
Mr. D Sari Sari Store in Atimonan, Quezon.
Abay Sari Sari Store in Naga City, Bicol.
Hi ACE Sari Sari Store located at Rockville Subdivision in San Bartolome, Novaliches, Quezon City.
CJ Loading Station at Pingkian Sauyo in Novaliches, Quezon City.
Starmobile signage on a vegetable stand in Davao.
Starmobile signage at a transport terminal in Davao.
Starmobile tarpaulin as marketing materials on tricycles in Bauan, Batangas.