With the trading margins under stress for new mobile phones, the Western markets started experimenting with the resale of used smartphones in their markets. The average lifetime of new smartphones is now two years and secondary markets can help reduce waste by having these devices stay in service for another four to five years. An established trading firm with an intent of venturing into this vertical had engaged our services to present the feasibility, installation, and procurement of the devices in addition to the recruitment of qualified service staff.
Engagement: An ESD (Electrostatic Discharge safe) workshop with testing equipment and jigs was installed at the initial phase. Technicians were recruited and trained through third-party experts as well as spare parts procured for the facility. A team of sales staff proficient in the pre-owned business was recruited through market contacts with the team leader. Auction contracts were signed with US-based operators that were the main source of these devices. Meetings with major suppliers were arranged in for procurement in Las Vegas during the CES exhibitions, successfully signing up major suppliers. In parallel, sales channels within the Middle East were also established with a separate facility created for product inspection in the warehouse with round the clock CCTV security. The focus had been on Apple and Samsung devices with other brands addressed in parallel.
Impact: The facility became a showcase for other trading companies to follow suit and this resulted in a deluge of businesses sprouting across Dubai and then the greater GCC. Multi-million dollar business was carried out during our engagement with the project that was successfully handed over to the partner
