GSMA launches online mobile industry marketplace

The GSMA has launched an online commerce site for the mobile industry, claiming it is designed to address inefficient procurement processes by providing a common platform for buyers and sellers. The organisation claimed the GSMA Marketplace will help buyers reduce the time spent finding the best deals and decrease sellers’ costs incurred from showcasing their products.

The Marketplace, which the GSMA said is the first of its kind, allows sellers to create personalised online storefronts, including uploading catalogues to promote products and services to telecoms buyers. “Whether you are a buyer looking for greater innovation or better prices in your procurement of products or services, or a seller seeking to win new business and enter new markets, the GSMA Marketplace will let you browse, contact and connect with companies who can help you achieve your objectives,” John Hoffman, GSMA CEO said.

“Our members asked us to set up the GSMA Marketplace and as an industry association we are in a unique position to attract buyers and sellers in telecoms from all over the world. We are focused on establishing it as the premier online destination to do business in the future.”

The GSMA said 1,300 buyers and sellers have already signed up to the service, and claimed the platform’s research centre will allow users to analyse markets, potential partners and competitors. While buyers can use the service for free, sellers are charged a $1,500 annual fee.

The industry body said it will be rolled out in stages, where the first phase is to allow buyers to search and make contact with sellers. How exactly following phases will pan out will apparently be determined by user feedback, but could include formal seller accreditation  and service ratings.

In related news, the GSMA has announced its Director General Anne Bouverot is leaving the organisation to become the CEO of security and identity solution provider Morpho. Bouverot will remain at her current post at the GSMA until the end of July.

“On behalf of the GSMA board, I would like to thank Anne for her exemplary leadership and outstanding work over the last four years,” said Jon Fredrik Baksaas, Chairman of the GSMA and CEO of Telenor Group. “Anne has made significant impact during her tenure with the GSMA, building a stronger organisation focused on our industry’s priorities and advocating effectively on behalf of mobile operators across the globe. We are naturally disappointed that Anne has decided to move on to a new opportunity, but we wish her every success as she takes this next exciting step in her career.”

Bouverot said: “I am very proud of the progress that the GSMA has made in aligning with our members around key industry initiatives, driving forward important advocacy programmes and convening the broad mobile communications ecosystem at leading events such as Mobile World Congress. I want to thank the GSMA Board, our entire membership and, of course, the GSMA staff for their support over the last four years.”

The GSMA said it has began the search for Bouverot’s successor.