Russian mobile operator MTS has started a cooperation with Samsung Electronics on the development of its retail business. MTS plans to build and run a network of shops under the Samsung brand in several key regions across the country. During the first stage, the operator has already launched branded Samsung shops in St Petersburg, Novokuznetsk, Voronezh, Chelyabinsk and Yekaterinburg. Several dozens shops are planned to open in major Russian cities by the end of the year.
A range of devices from Samsung will be available for sale in the shops, including smartphones, tablets, VR devices and wearables. The focus will be on selling high-end devices, with larger screens, LTE and price tags over RUB 15,000. Customers will be able to arrange financing for the devices to pay on installment and receive bonus credit from MTS with their purchases. Insurance and device configuration services will also be offered.
