Indian postal department is world’s largest network of of postal department (155,330 offices) and has been on a ride to monetize it’s asset.
Earlier they appointed O&M to devise a new logo and slogan, roped in McKinsey to suggest revamp measures for India Postal dept. and one of the most interesting project undertaken was opening up it’s channel for travellers to book tickets (for more details, read: Indian Postal Department launches Ticketing Distribution – Threat to OTAs?).
And now, postal department has tied up with Idea Cellular (Kerala) to sell Idea’s recharge coupons via it’s 5,050 offices.
Kerala postal department is also selling BSNL recharge coupons and provides financial, insurance and e-based services.
What’s interesting to note is that 30% of postal department revenues last year came from selling value added services.
This is a great example of selling secondary services, once you have the core ready- involves thinking laterally and of course, breaking the ‘fear of status quo’ syndrome.
What’s your take?
pic credit: Rohit Markande
It’d make better sense for Idea and BSNL to introduce Online Recharge like Vodafone. I just hate to go out and buy these recharge coupons as if I don’t have tweeting or feeds reading to do. What a waste of human resource.
Also it’s a great fast and easy distribution network for idea !!!
I think Idea pulled out a good one before Airtel in this one ..
Pardon my lack of enthusiasm but considering that the tracking service for speed post, the flagship premium service of postal department, still shows no sign of working, I think they are probably focusing too much effort on secondary things. They should take a leaf out of Railways’ book!