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VodafoneThree (Vodafone and Three UK) has today announced an exclusive new multi-year partnership with high street retailer Currys, which will see the newly merged operator becoming the retailer’s sole mobile network operator (distribution deal) and also expanding their offering to “include mobile broadband” (Fixed Wireless Access).
Just to recap. Vodafone already has a retail partnership with Currys, which was last updated in January 2023 and saw their offering go beyond mobile and introduce home broadband and connected devices for around the home. But the new agreement expands this to include the newly merged company and will see the operator offering mobile services, home and mobile broadband under the Vodafone brand via Currys, as well as VOXI mobile.
The announcement clearly states that “VodafoneThree will be the exclusive mobile network operator (MNO) for Currys,” which is interesting since Currys is also the owner of Three UK based virtual operator (MVNO) iD Mobile (the fact it’s based off Three UK may avoid a clash with this deal). Some of Currys investors have, however, previously indicated that they would like iD Mobile to be sold in order to better “realise shareholder value” (here).
Jon Shaw, Consumer Operations Director at VodafoneThree, said:
“I am delighted that we can announce a new exclusive partnership with Currys just weeks after the creation of VodafoneThree. This new wider ranging partnership will allow Currys and VodafoneThree to explore greater opportunities in home and mobile broadband, for consumers and businesses across the UK. It’s an exciting time as we build the UK’s best network, with millions of customers already starting to benefit from unrivalled access to roam across each other’s networks at no extra cost.”
Ed Connolly, Chief Commercial Officer for Currys, said:
“Signing this multi-year agreement with VodafoneThree demonstrates the strength of our long-term partnership. We’re confident in our shared commitment to providing customers with quality, flexibility and value across mobile, home broadband and mobile broadband too. This agreement will allow customers to continue using the improved coverage, speed and reliability of the VodafoneThree network in the UK. Our mobile offering is growing, it’s working for our customers, and it’s working for us too.”
Currys currently has nearly 300 stores across the UK, while Vodafone has over 400 stores.