BTS Group invests in ZIM to boost global eSIM market reach

BTS Group has announced a strategic investment in ZIM Connections to expand into the global eSIM connectivity market.

This partnership combines BTS, known for its presence in the global communications and technology sectors, with ZIM Connections, which provides eSIM connectivity solutions for businesses and consumers worldwide. Both firms aim to enhance global connectivity solutions via eSIM technology for mobile operators and end users through this cooperation.

Rafael Olloqui, CEO and Co-Founder of BTS Group, said, "The global eSIM market is experiencing remarkable growth, with projections estimating an increase from USD $4.8 billion in 2023 to USD $34.6 billion by 2033."

"With smartphone eSIM adoption expected to reach 76% by 2030, this investment represents a strategic move into one of the fastest-growing segments in telecom. As global travel and eSIM adoption accelerate, we're helping operators capitalise on emerging roaming opportunities."

BTS plans to use its extensive network of relationships with mobile network operators (MNOs) to enhance ZIM's offering. This involves bringing more direct mobile connectivity to ZIM and improving the end-user experience with more efficient and reliable mobile access across different regions. This initiative also aims to generate new revenue streams for mobile providers by boosting global eSIM roaming traffic from international users and travellers.

Andrés Proaño, Chief Revenue Officer of BTS, commented, "This move into eSIM is a key part of our broader strategy to support MNOs as they shift toward digital assets, particularly internationally. It complements other digital solutions we've introduced—such as Mobile ID and cloud-based services—by enabling operators to unlock new sources of value in an increasingly digital and mobile world."

Part of the strategy involves BTS offering a white-label eSIM app and platform, developed in conjunction with ZIM. This application allows MNOs to introduce a branded, customer-focused eSIM app linked to their existing backend systems without complicated integration or the need for in-house development. The platform supports coverage in over 200 global destinations and provides users with a dashboard to manage their eSIMs while allowing operators to keep their brand presence and extend their reach to international customers or other client segments.

Giulia Acchioni Mena, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of ZIM Connections, stated, "Joining forces with BTS allows us to scale our technology and reach, making seamless, high-quality mobile connectivity accessible to more users and businesses around the world. With BTS as a strategic partner, we can bring our white-label eSIM solution to a broader range of operators—making it easy for them to deliver global coverage while eliminating the technical complexities traditionally associated with eSIM implementation."

This collaboration aims to integrate BTS's robust connections with MNOs and its operational expertise with ZIM's advanced eSIM platform and technology. The goal is to empower operators to offer seamless mobile connectivity with less complexity and higher efficiency, opening up new opportunities in the fast-changing global market landscape.