It all started in June 2002, when businessman and visionary John John Meyer opened a store in Klerksdorp. Back then, it was only himself, his wife and two other employees.
Sixteen years later, this small beginning, together with a lot of hard work and a vision to grow, has led to Meyer being the proud franchisee of eight Cell C stores all over the North West province with about 90 people in his employment.
Cell C has taken the cellular industry by storm. Being one of the youngest network providers in South Africa, the brand had to start from the bottom and work its way up. Now, it is a leading network provider that offers unique services.
What do they offer?
They are very customer-focused and have been through many developmental changes through the years in terms of infrastructure, the look and feel of their stores and products and services that have changed and increased.
Potchefstroom has LTE network coverage in most of the areas which means that their customers can enjoy super-fast internet. They also have brilliant ongoing data deals.
They offer all the handsets that are available on the market and have a wide range of products to suit any customer’s pocket. Their rates are also very affordable and range from 66c to R1.50 per minute.
Cell C also has a unique streaming service, Black, that allows customers to watch hundreds of channels at a very low monthly price. Black also allows you to rent or buy movies and you can stream your favourite series as well. Up until the end of August, Cell C customers do not pay any data charges when they stream on Black. Many of Cell C’s new cell phone deals come with a Black subscription.
‘This is the only application in the country at the moment where you can use your cell phone’s airtime to rent or purchase a movie,’ says Yolandi Venter-Winterbach, the area manager.
But what makes them unique?
They have cellular wifi calling which means that it doesn’t matter how good or poor your network is, if you have wifi, you can make a call to any other network. Cell C is the only service provider that offers this service at the moment.
‘Wifi calling is a massive selling point, especially in the communities that have network challenges in general,’ says John John.
He says Cell C’s level of customer service makes them stand out from other network providers.
‘We really try to attain and maintain a high standard of customer service. Like everyone else, we are not infallible and we do make mistakes but we try and avoid them as much as possible. We strive for perfection.’
Cell C always tries to look after their customer’s needs first. ‘We try and be the consumer champion when it comes to that,’ says Yolandi.
They are community-driven
According to Yolandi, they try and be as involved in the community as possible.
‘We try and get involved wherever we can and not just from a business perspective but rather as an opportunity to get in touch with our customers and find out what their needs are.’
Cell C is also very involved with sponsorships. They have sponsored the Potch Dorp Rugby Club and were the main sponsor for their women’s rugby team last year.
This year, Yolandi has made it her personal project to help Paws (Potchefstroom Animal Welfare Society).
‘We have teamed up with Paws and, for the next three months, for every customer who comes into our store and ports either their prepaid or contract number from another network over to our network, we will donate R20,’ she says.
Yolandi is also busy creating an app for Paws that will make viewing, adopting and donating a whole lot easier.
‘Community involvement is ongoing because people approach us throughout the year and, based on our ability, we will get involved if we can. For now, Paws is our main project for the year,’ says John John.
Over the years, Cell C has been involved with many different organisations like Cansa, the SAPS and different sports teams.
Be part of the family
‘We want to grow as a cellular company and as Cell C North West. We want to be your number-one stop when you need a new cell phone, data or have a technical issue. Our staff gets regular training and is always willing to lend you a hand free of charge,’ says Yolandi.
It is never too late to become part of the Cell C family. Visit Cell C in Mooirivier Mall (opposite Checkers) to find out more about their amazing deals and services. You can also contact their store at 084 460 0797.
