News 2000
Virgin Mobile moves into WHSmith
08/10/2000
Virgin Mobile - the world's largest 'virtual' operator - has signed a deal with WHSmith to sell its mobile phones through 250 of its nationwide stores.
The expansion into other distribution channels outside the Virgin Group - the first agreement was signed with JS Sainsbury last week - will help the company reach its sales target of one million customers by Spring 2001. Virgin Mobile currently has over 420,000 customers and helped joint venture partner, One2One pip Orange's network sales in Q3.
Shoppers in WHSmith stores will be able to pick up a Virgin Mobile Alcatel Max DB package (£49.99) and a Nokia 3210 (£99.99) - both including connection. In a further 100 outlets, the WAP-enabled M35i (£129.99, incl. connection) will also be available. Agreements for wider distribution through other retailers is expected over the next few weeks.
Comments Steven Day, corporate affairs director at Virgin Mobile: "We have set our targets high for company growth, but the wider distribution plans will mean we are well on target for one million customers by Spring 2001. We are sure that our good value, catch free offering will appeal to this new audience."
Virgin Mobile handsets are now available on the High Street at Virgin Megastores, Our Price, v.shops, JS Sainsbury and WHSmith; or direct from www.virgin.com/mobile and 0845 6000 600.
