Maple Travels Partners Zitra Investment For Better Customer Experience
In a bid to make travel more convenient and financially accessible, Maple Travels has partnered with a Microfinance Bank, Zitra Investment Limited to provide flexible travel financing options for customers.
At the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Head, Business Development, Zitra Investment Limited, Kolawole Dahunsi emphasised that the partnership aims to help travelers plan and secure their trips with ease with its travel loan product.
“The idea is simple, Maple Travels brings the travel expertise, and we at Zitra provide the financial support. This collaboration ensures that travelers can lock in ticket prices and access flexible payment options, making the entire journey from planning to execution smooth and stress-free,” Dahunsi stated.
According to the MoU, the loan will be used primarily for purchasing tickets upfront. Zitra will disburse funds directly to Maple Travels, ensuring transparency and preventing diversion of funds, customers introduced by either Maple or Zitra will be eligible for this financing, and the process is designed to be seamless.
Dahunsi explained that the product includes: advance ticket purchase loans which enables travelers to book flights without immediate full payment; Direct disbursement to Maple Travels; Flexible repayment plans; Savings component and early bird pricing advantage.
Dahunsi explained further that once a customer expresses interest, Maple Travels will forward their details to Zitra.
“The bank will verify the applicant’s identity and conduct due diligence within minutes. A Relationship Manager (RM) will then reach out to the client to finalize the account opening, documentation, and loan processing.
“To ensure a smooth transaction, the client will make an initial equity contribution of 20 per cent of the ticket price into their Zitra account, from which the loan will be disbursed. The bank will not debit customers’ salary accounts, keeping the financial arrangement independent of other obligations.
“After internal reviews, approvals, and risk assessments by Zitra’s credit officers, an offer letter will be sent to the client electronically. Upon signing, the loan will be finalized, and the funds will be sent directly to Maple Travels for ticket processing,” he explained.
Dahunsi highlighted that the entire process from loan application to disbursement is structured to be completed within a few hours. He assured customers of seamless communication and accountability, with Zitra and Maple Travels working together to ensure a hassle-free experience.
His words: “With this partnership, we are eliminating financial barriers to travel, making it easier for individuals and businesses to plan trips without undue financial stress.
“It is a game changer for travelers seeking financial flexibility. By combining a structured loan and savings plan,we are breaking down financial barriers and making travel more accessible.
“This initiative not only enhances customer satisfaction but also promotes financial discipline through structured savings with a seamless loan approval process and competitive rates, we are turning dream vacations into reality. Together, we are driving growth, expanding financial accessibility and redefining financing in Nigeria.”
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Maple Travels, Mr. Adefolarin Adesemowo Olaitan applauded this great initiative as Zitra had taken away their major burden by making it possible for travellers to be able to travel and pay with convenience.
