BlackBerry smartphone maker Research In Motion (RIM) has launched the first BlackBerry retail store in Lagos in association with mobile phone distributor Slot Nigeria
Robert Bose, RIM regional managing director for the Middle East and Africa, said, “We are very pleased to cement our physical presence with local staff, establish a new legal entity and work with local business partners to expand our retail and customer care across Nigeria.”
The smartphones that would be made available to customers at the store will include the BlackBerry Bold 9900, the BlackBerry Torch 9810, the BlackBerry Torch 9860, the BlackBerry Curve 9360 and the BlackBerry Curve 9380.
“Today, BlackBerry is sold in about 300 retail stores nationwide. Our strategy is to continue working with local partners to help deliver a strong retail presence and after sales service that will provide our Nigerian customers with the optimal BlackBerry experience,” Bose remarked.
According to RIM, all BlackBerry smartphones purchased at the store would be set-up for free. A RIM statement added that the company would provide software upgrade stations in 60 more retail stores across Nigeria as part of an ongoing commitment to improve its customer service.
RIM also has plans to introduce in-warranty repair and after-sales support in retail stores located in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.
