Vodafone expands operations with Lebara purchase
VHA to take over Lebara’s Australian mobile business
Tuesday, 13 September 2016 – Vodafone Hutchison Australia (VHA) has announced it has expanded its operations with the purchase of Lebara’s Australian mobile business assets.
VHA Chief Strategy Officer Dan Lloyd said that under the deal, VHA will take over Lebara’s mobile base and will have the right to use the Lebara brand in Australia.
“Lebara Mobile has built up a strong brand presence and loyal customer base in Australia, and we see opportunities to grow the business further,” Mr Lloyd said.
“Given VHA’s long relationship with Lebara Mobile, which has been a Vodafone Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) since 2009, we expect a seamless transition to the new arrangement.
“Lebara Mobile customers are already enjoying the Vodafone 4G network, so nothing will change for customers in terms of their experience.
“It will also be business as usual for all of Lebara Mobile’s employees, and customer service agents, who will continue to provide care to Lebara Mobile customers via existing service channels.”
Mr Lloyd said the deal will see the Lebara Mobile brand supported by the resources of VHA.
“Lebara Mobile has established a market-leading niche, enabling migrant communities to stay connected with their loved ones abroad, particularly through very competitive and award-winning international mobile calling,” he said.
“With the corporate resources of VHA behind it, we expect the Lebara Mobile brand to become an even stronger force in the Australian mobile market.
“At VHA, we are supporters of customer choice, and we look forward to championing the Lebara Mobile brand to offer choice and value to Australia’s strong and growing migrant communities.”
Lebara Group Chairman and CEO Yoganathan Ratheesan said his company prides itself on serving the global migrant community.
“Our Lebara Mobile Australia customers have benefited from our long-term relationship with VHA for many years and we are working with VHA to ensure a seamless transition,” said Mr Ratheesan.
Lebara Mobile products will continue to be sold through existing retail partners including Coles, Woolworths and a large range of convenience store outlets around Australia.
Lebara Mobile customers requiring service support should continue to contact Lebara Mobile on 126 122 from their Lebara Mobile.
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Notes to editors:
Founded in 2001, the Lebara Group has built a telecoms business with operations in eight countries. Lebara Mobile launched in Australia in 2009, offering inclusive and accessible products and services which make migrants’ lives easier. Lebara Mobile Australia is the proud recipient of a number of consumer awards, including Money’s Best Value Mobile Plan – International Calls 2015 and 2016.
Lebara will continue to operate in Australia to run its Lebara Play and Lebara Money brands.