The extended marketing mix, also known as the 7Ps, includes Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People, Process, and Physical Evidence. These variables are crucial in the banking industry as they help banks attract and retain customers, differentiate themselves from competitors, and ultimately drive profitability.
1. Product: Banks in Tanzania offer a wide range of products and services to meet the diverse needs of customers. For example, CRDB Bank offers various products such as savings accounts, loans, insurance, and investment services to cater to different customer segments.
2. Price: Pricing strategies play a significant role in the banking industry. For instance, NMB Bank in Tanzania offers competitive interest rates on savings accounts and loans to attract customers and retain them.
3. Place: The physical location of bank branches and ATMs is crucial in the banking industry. Banks like Exim Bank have strategically placed their branches and ATMs in convenient locations to make it easier for customers to access their services.
4. Promotion: Banks in Tanzania use various promotional strategies to attract customers. For example, TIB Bank runs advertising campaigns on TV, radio, and social media to promote their products and services.
5. People: The employees of a bank play a crucial role in delivering excellent customer service. Banks like Stanbic Bank invest in training their staff to ensure they provide a positive customer experience.
6. Process: The processes involved in banking transactions need to be efficient and customer-friendly. For example, CRDB Bank has streamlined their online banking platform to make it easier for customers to carry out transactions.
7. Physical Evidence: The physical appearance of bank branches and the overall branding of the bank are important in creating a positive impression on customers. For instance, Absa Bank has modern and well-designed branches that create a sense of trust and credibility among customers.
In conclusion, the extended marketing mix variables are highly applicable in the banking industry in Tanzania. By effectively managing these variables, banks can attract and retain customers, differentiate themselves from competitors, and ultimately drive profitability.