Vodafone launches mobile-centric retail outlets to better service Australian small business
First Vodafone Business Centre opened in Adelaide
Vodafone has opened the doors to its first VBC (Vodafone Business Centre). The move marks another major milestone for the company in its return to small business, and follows its recent announcement that it will offer 50 per cent off access fees on a range of $70+ Red business Grow plans when connecting 10 or more services in one transaction.
Vodafone’s new VBC, located at 206 Greenhill Rd, at Eastwood in Adelaide, will offer the company’s extensive range of business plans, smartphones, tablet computers, mobile broadband products and accessories. In another first for the company, Vodafone will begin selling tailored machine-to-machine (M2M) solutions to small businesses from its business centres.
Vodafone’s Executive General Manager Enterprise, Stuart Kelly, said the company wants to get up close and personal with small businesses.
“Every business is different and needs tailored solutions to suit their needs,” said Mr Kelly.
With technology ever evolving, we recognise some small businesses need help implementing new technology. We’re inviting small businesses to visit our business specialists and learn more about new devices and concepts such as M2M,” said Mr Kelly.
“Communication between machines offers capabilities that are simplifying the way we do business. As a global leader in M2M technology, we are proud to offer small businesses a range of solutions for all types of industries, from smart energy and logistics, to transportation and retail services.”
New play and learn retail destination
The new modern store design serves as a backdrop to showcase Vodafone’s full range of products, displayed on tables where customers can try out smartphones, tablets and other devices and accessories. The store also boasts ‘learning-style’ devices which customers can use while speaking with business specialists to learn about new products or services that could benefit their businesses.
“We invite small businesses to discover the many ways our solutions can help give them the competitive edge in their industry,” said Mr Kelly.
Rapid retail expansion
Vodafone is committed to having a large retail presence for small business in every state across Australia and will now look to open another four stores in quick succession. A store on the Gold Coast and three in the Sydney suburbs of Crows Nest, Guildford and Parramatta will all open by October 2015. The company has ambitions to open another 15 VBC stores by 2017.
“We want to be highly visible to small businesses and to let them know that we are ready to serve their needs. We are opening stores in locations that have heavy foot traffic and where we have strong network coverage” said Mr Kelly.
-ends-
Notes to editors:
Business Offer:
Offer ends 30/09/15. 50% off for new and upgrading customers with an ABN/ACN who sign up to 10 or more Red Business Grow $70, $80, $100 or $130 24 month voice plans (‘Eligible Plans’) in one transaction. Excludes rate plan changes. Discount credit applied for 24 months as long as you stay connected. Min monthly spend is applicable handset payments plus $35, $40, $50 or $65. After month 24, undiscounted rates apply. Early exit fee is $70, $80, $100 or $130 (depending on Eligible Plan chosen) x months remaining on contract.