News 2000
Virgin Mobile expands into a new market
02/10/2000
Virgin Mobile - the world's largest 'virtual' mobile operator - has signed a deal with JS Sainsbury to sell handsets through its 420 nationwide stores.
The new development is the first phase of expansion plans for Virgin Mobile; it is also the first time the company has looked outside the Virgin Group for distribution. Further agreements with other retailers are expected to be completed before the end of the year.
Shoppers in Sainsburys' stores will be able to pick up a Virgin Mobile Alcatel DB Max package for £49.99; and a Nokia 3210 for £99.99 - both including connection. As usual, there is no line rental, no monthly fee and no ongoing charges. And calls are still charged at the cheap rate of 15 pence for each of the first five minutes of a day and five pence per minute after that.
Comments Steven Day, corporate affairs director at Virgin Mobile: "Virgin is the ideal brand to grow in this market. Our broad consumer appeal, paired with a good value, catch free offering is sure to make this the best mobile retail partnership to date. It's certainly fresher than Orange's!"
Virgin Mobiles can now be found on the High Street at Virgin Megastores, Our Price, v.shops and JS Sainsbury; or direct from www.virgin.com/mobile or 0845 6000 600.
For more information, please call:
Steven Day, Virgin Mobile: 07931 777 777
Debra Burtt, Consolidated Communications: 020 7208 2714
Louise Worrell, JS Sainsbury: 020 7695 6069
