This archive report was first published on 15 July 2020.
The Standard newspaper, established in 1902, has undergone significant transformation to stay ahead in the digital age. The company's commitment to innovation and agility has enabled it to adapt to the changing media landscape.
According to Roseline Abuto, head of marketing at Standard Group, 'Online media consumption has shown tremendous growth over the past few years with mobile devices taking over as the preferred channels of consuming online news as opposed to other digital devices.'
As a result, many media houses globally have shifted their focus to digital formats, providing unique, quality, and engaging content to consumers anytime and anywhere. The Standard Group has followed suit, leveraging WhatsApp to make its e-paper accessible to readers through a chatbot service.
For just Sh20, readers can access the Standard e-newspaper by sending the word 'NEWS' on their WhatsApp to 0700222213. This service is available exclusively for M-Pesa users through STK Push or Lipa na M-Pesa Paybill.
The WhatsApp chatbot service is managed by Standard Group's authorized partner, Belva Digital. This innovative move ensures that readers can access their trusted source of information digitally, minimizing the risk of transmission through contact.
