Zenith bank rolls out free wifi internet services in branches

In a bid to extend its leadership within the finncial service sector, Zenith bank has implemented free wireless services within some of its branches. The innitiative is expected to enhance brand equity and create a unique consumer experience at designated point of interface.

It is expected that by providing free Wi-Fi, the Bank is providing its customers with a distinct competitive advantage in the way that only free internet access can, as they are now empowered to innovate without the constraints of data costs.
Bank customers visiting these free wifi enabled branches will be able to use any wireless-enabled PC, tablet or smartphone to connect to the internet for Apps and other downloads, visit websites for information and updates and lots more, while in the bank’s premises or close by.

The bank announced in a facebook post that customers at the premises of the Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in Idi-Araba can connect to the free WiFi and log-in with Zenith Bank account number. “This means that whenever you are at LUTH you can enjoy free unlimited WiFi service, as long as you have an account with Zenith Bank,” the bank said in the post.

Recall that a report by by BT and Avaya, a UK based research outfit revealed that 49 percent of UK banking customers felt that free WiFi would “greatly improve their in-branch experience.” And while it is too soon to say how much impact this may have on consumer behavior in Nigeria, some of the customers who spoke on the development have however, commended the initaive saying it will encourage people to visit the branches.

“This is a very nice initiative and I hope that other banks and corporate bodies will also join the party and spread this to other parts of Nigeria,” Oladimeji Akinloye, a journalist and Zenith bank customer said, adding that this will boost the bank’s customer base.

Analysts have hailed the move as a great response to the economic challenges facing the country, which is causing bank deposits to dry up fast. “It’s no secret that banks are facing some of the toughest challenges of any sector, so it’s great to see forward-thinking companies like Zenith bank prioritising their investments,” Ganiyu Olowu a brand analyst said.

“If you can get new customers to download your mobile banking app before they step foot out your door, there’s a much higher likelihood that those customers will become regular mobile banking users.”

Though this initiative is new in Nigeria, it is a common practice among banks in developed countries.In 2013, Barclays bank UK, rolled out free Wifi services in all it 1500 branches.

At the moment, only a few Zenith bank branches are captured in the free wifi network, but the bank has assured that the initiative will keep expanding to other branches.