Barclays Bank held their second Retail Market Day over the weekend at their Barclays Piazza in the Central Business District (CBD).
The exhibition is one of the ways Barclays Bank – which is currently undergoing rebranding to Absa – intends to show commitment to the growth of Botswana’s economy.
The initiative was also designed to give retailers a platform to display their products, whilst at the same time engaging with their customers.
Explaining why they decided to hold the event at their head office as opposed to BA Isago University’s campus where it was conducted last year, the Chief Risk Officer, Kabelo Molomo said, “We wanted to prove to our clients that we support them and so are not ashamed to do it here.”
According to Molomo, the companies that were selected to exhibit are ones they have a relationship with. This included enterprises such as: Sefalana, Fours Cash and Carry, Bokomo, PST and Trans Africa.
The latter recently held their first Small and Micro Enterprises (SMME) Expo to expose them to Trans Africa clientele. The Best Stall Prize winner then, Dobi Foods won the opportunity to set-up stall among the retail giants.
Speaking to Voice Money, the company’s Sales and Marketing Officer, Tinao Sithelo expressed his pride at how far they have come as a traditional food retailer.
“Being in the midst of such big companies shows that we are growing as Dobi Foods. Batswana support us and we hope they keep up the support. The goal is to grow towards large scale.”
Though there were no prizes attached to the categories, PST was awarded the Best Creative while Best Innovation went to Trans Africa. Bokomo walked away with the Best Display tag.
As the day unfolded, Molomo took the opportunity to outline the new services they have in store for the upcoming festive season.
“We have a Current Liabilities Campaign that’s ongoing and there is an Audi A3 to be won. Entries will be closing on the 18th and the draw will be on the 21st of December. You may have a great Christmas driving an A3!
“As you may be aware we are changing our brand, so far you may have seen a number branches and ATM’s changing around the country. We have already made changeovers in our Broadhurst, Kanye and Lobatse Branches. Be on the lookout as we paint the country red!” he exclaimed.
The bank intends to hold the Retail Market Day annually.
