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'XPRESS' YOURSELF WITH VIRGIN MOBILE
- Nokia 5300 XpressMusic 'Red Hot' Handset Available NOW
6th November 2006: Virgin Mobile today announced its sizzling post-paid offer on the Nokia 5300 XpressMusic, available for only $10 per month on any CAP plan.
Slicker than your average handset, the 5300 boasts all the features of your mobile phone AND your music player in a single stylish device. With support for up to 2 GB or over 500 songs it's a definite must have this Christmas. Compared to stand-alone music players, this vibrant little number offers a first rate music experience and at a more affordable price.
Accompanied by a sleek Bluetooth stereo headset, you can sit back and tune out to HI-FI quality music which is streamed from your compatible mobile phone, PDA, music player, or PC. How you groove is up to you...? But if that's not enough, this wireless headset also doubles as a snug handsfree and quickly folds away for your portable convenience. Alternatively use the included 3.5mm adaptor to share the luv by plugging in some speakers for a flawless audio performance (speakers not included).
Sue Bailey Marketing Director at Virgin Mobile commented, "This is a great looking slider phone that's also a mobile music machine and a digital camera, plus the Bluetooth stereo headset is seriously sexy. The red 5300 is exclusive to us and comes with our low 24/7 call rates and free voicemail to help get the party started this Christmas".
Available on a CAP or Phone On Us plan (POU), the Nokia 5300 has the following awesome features:
- 1.3 mega pixel camera & video
- Music Player & FM radio
- 256 MB Memory card
- Bluetooth connectivity (allows you to stream music wirelessly to the Nokia stereo headphones)
On a Virgin Mobile CAP plan it's only $10 per month over 24 months plus your chosen CAP. (CAP plans start at $20 per month)
Or, on POU you pay only $20 per month over 24 months, receive $20 included monthly credit, and we pay off the phone.
PLUS when you purchase the Nokia 5300 you get a FREE set of Nokia Bluetooth stereo headphones, valued at $149.
(Headphones available for the first 2000 customers to purchase the Nokia 5300 on a Virgin Mobile plan.)
The Nokia 5300 XpressMusic is available from Virgin Mobile stores, online at www.virginmobile.com.au or by calling 13 43 00.
*Leave when you like, just pay out the balance of your 24 monthly phone instalments and usage, your pro-rated minimum spend for that month, and a Premature Evacuation Fee of $200 if you pay out your phone within the first 6 months. Minimum total cost of the package if you pay out your phone on day one is the Post-Paid Price of $240 plus $200. While on Phone on Us we pay the Post-Paid Price off your phone each month you're on the plan.
Special numbers, Vibe content & Globetrotting charges don't count towards your included value. If you don't spend all your included value per month, you'll lose it; spend over and you'll continue to be charged our low rates. All rates apply in Oz. See virginmobile.com.au for full details.
Blue tooth stereo headphones: you will be sent an SMS with instructions to call the friendly Virgin Mobile team to receive your free headset within 5 working days.
Notes to Editors:
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne. Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the Optus Group. Virgin Mobile has more than 500,000 customers and is one of the most recognised brands globally, representing strong customer focus and good value for money being sold through more than 4000 outlets across Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
Selda Simsek
PR Executive
02 9028 0171 / 0406 679 090
selda.simsek@virginmobile.com.au
- VIRGIN MOBILE INTRODUCES ITS NEW ‘BEAN COUNTER’ PREPAID OFFER -
- NEW ONLINE OFFER FEATURES A 10C CALL RATE ANYTIME TO ANYONE IN OZ, PLUS A BARGAIN 10C TEXT RATE -
9 October 2006: Virgin Mobile Australia today unveiled its new 10c prepaid offer designed to satisfy the little ‘beanie’ in all of us. Available only online Bean Counter costs just $10 to purchase (for new customers) and just $25 to recharge thereafter. Existing customers can just go online and recharge to get the great rates. This banging rate comes complete with a 10c text rate and 10c per minute call rate to anyone, anytime in Oz*.
By far one of the hottest prepaid deals, the Bean Counter product offers free voicemail in Oz, as well as 24/7 rates, ensuring great all round value.
For those needing to control their spending, Bean Counter is all about seeking the best value and looking after yourself. A little tongue-in-cheek, our friendly Mr. Beanie is a playful dig at the “little beanie” that lurks in all of us.
Exclusive to Virgin Mobile, Bean Counter is an online only prepaid offer available for both purchase and recharge via credit card only. You can store your credit card information online securely and set up a scheduled top up once a month to ensure you always have credit. Or even set up an instant recharge when your balance hits a certain level.
If that’s not enough, all prepaid and Bean Counter customers can also retrieve their call history and view their top-up history online.
Bean Counter can be bought with any of the range of prepaid handsets available online, ALL of which come with $10 of Bean Counter credit included (30 day expiry applies). BYO SIM packs sold online cost just $10 and come with $10 of included Bean Counter credit.
The new Bean Counter product is available exclusively online now at www.virginmobile.com.au.
* Billed per 30 seconds with a 25¢ call connection. Rate applies to standard calls/text/photos (from photo available handsets) in Oz. Pre-Paid phones are secured to our network & can be released after topping up with $80 on your new service. Included calls/text/photos to be used in your first 45 days for any $25 recharge. See virginmobile.com.au for full details.
Notes to Editors:
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne. Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the Optus Group. Virgin Mobile has more than 500,000 customers and is one of the most recognised brands globally, representing strong customer focus and good value for money being sold through more than 4000 outlets across Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Selda Simsek PR Executive 02 9028 0171 selda.simsek@virginmobile.com.au |
CRANK IT UP WITH THE NEW VIRGIN MOBILE W700i
- Virgin Mobile unveils new Sony Ericsson W700i complete with dinky music speakers -
1 August 2006: A must for any serious muso! Virgin Mobile today unveiled the latest addition to their range, the spanking new Sony Ericsson W700i, which comes complete with pumping mini speakers.
The W700i not only features a mobile music player, 256MB memory stick and FM Radio as standard, it also boats a 2 Megapixel camera. The W700i/ speaker combo is exclusively available with Virgin Mobile and is the perfect addition to any music lovers collection.
Giving you music on the move, these miniature speakers are small enough to fit into a pocket or bag. But don’t be fooled by their size. The speakers crack a real wallop and are perfect for plugging in where ever, whenever.
This hot new bundle is available exclusively with Virgin Mobile across a choice of plans. Take the handset on the Virgin Mobile Phone on Us 20 and receive $20 included credit*. Or opt for one of Virgin Mobile’s low caps (which start from just $20) and simply add a further $10 instalment for the handset. Both plans feature free voicemail in Oz and 24/7 call rates as standard. Too easy!
Rich Field, Virgin Mobile Brand GM commented, ‘The phone is fantastic but it’s the speakers that really blew me away. Not only are they tiny, but they’re small enough to fit in my manbag!’
The W700i and MPS-60 Sony Walkman Speaker bundle is available from Allphones, Telechoice, Virgin Mobile stores and online at www.virginmobile.com.au or call 13 43 00.
Notes to Editors:
* Billed per 30 seconds with a 25¢ call connection. Special numbers,
Vibe content & Globetrotting charges don't count towards your included
value. If you don’t spend all your included value per month, you’ll
lose it; spend over and you’ll continue to be charged our low rates.
Leave when you like, just pay out the balance of your 24 monthly phone instalments
and usage, your pro-rated minimum spend for that month, and a Premature
Evacuation Fee of $200 if you pay out your phone within the first 6 months.
Minimum total cost of the package if you pay out your phone on day one is
the Post-Paid Price of ‘$240 plus $200. While on Phone on Us we pay
the Post-Paid Price/24 off your phone each month you’re on the plan.
All rates apply in Oz. See virginmobile.com.au for full details.
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne. Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the Optus Group. Virgin Mobile now has over 521,000 customers and is one of the most recognised brands globally. Representing strong customer focus and good value for money Virgin Mobile is sold through more than 3,500 outlets across Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Selda Simsek PR Executive 02 9028 0171 selda.simsek@virginmobile.com.au |
Warm up with a hot ‘Chocolate’ this winter with Virgin Mobile
1 June 2006: Virgin Mobile today unveiled the hot new LG KG800 ‘Chocolate’ on their CAP and $30 Phone On Us plans.
Feel like something sweet to combat those winter blues! Then get your teeth stuck into the Silky smooth KG800. This stylish, slider phone is more than just a fashion accessory. Weighing in at just 83grams, the KG800 boasts a range of entertainment features including a 1.3 megapixel camera with flash, video recording features and an MP3 player with external button giving you easy access to your tunes.
With a minimalist design you definitely get more than you pay for. Bluetooth and USB connectivity, Tri-band, WAP and Polyphonic ringtones are all-inclusive on this must have handset. But for the piece de résistance, and a first for mobiles, the LG KG800 has a hidden sensor touchpad that glows red when activated by the warmth of your hands. Now that’s ‘HOT’!
The LG KG800 is available for just $15 per month over 24 months plus the minimum monthly spend on any Virgin Mobile Cap plan*.
If that’s not enough, the LG KG800 is also available on the Virgin Mobile Phone On Us** option. For just $30 a month, over 24 months you’ll receive up to $30 included credit per month and a brand new spanking phone. Too easy!
The Chocolate - LG KG800 is available from Virgin Mobile stores, online at www.virginmobile.com.au or call 13 43 00.
Notes to Editors:
* Cap Phones
Leave when you like, just pay out the balance of your 24 monthly
phone instalments and usage, your pro-rated minimum spend for that
month, and a Premature Evacuation Fee of $200 if you pay out your
phone within the first 6 months. Minimum total cost of the package
if you pay out your phone on day one is the Price of the phone
($360) plus $200.
* Phone on Us
We pay the Price/24 off your phone each month while you stay on
this plan. Leave when you like, just pay out the balance of your
24 monthly phone instalments and usage, your pro-rated minimum
spend for that month, and a Premature Evacuation Fee of $200
if you pay out your phone within the first 6 months. Minimum
total cost of the package if you pay out your phone on day one
is the Price ($360) of the phone plus $200.
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne. Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the Optus Group. Virgin Mobile now has over 521,000 customers and is one of the most recognised brands globally, representing strong customer focus and good value for money being sold through more than 3,500 outlets across Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Selda Simsek PR Executive 02 9028 0171 selda.simsek@virginmobile.com.au |
UNDER NEW LEADERSHIP VIRGIN MOBILE UNVEILS A RAFT OF NEW OFFERS AND LAUNCHES AN AUSTRALIAN AD FIRST
Wednesday 26 April 2006: Virgin Mobile Australian today launched a new ad campaign to promote a raft of new offers aimed at attracting future customers and retaining existing ones.
Three months on from the Optus acquisition and the subsequent merger with SIMplus, the business has now revamped its offers, which will be promoted by a cutting edge advertising campaign.
Matt Davey Virgin Mobile CEO commented, “Today is a red letter day for Virgin Mobile; we are launching a highly competitive new prepaid offer, we have revamped our Cap offers to ensure great all round value, plus we are going to market with an innovative and engaging ad campaign.”
“It has been business as usual for Virgin Mobile over the last three months as we have concentrated on building the strategy for 2006/7 and beyond. Core to this strategy is offering competitive, excellent value products in the handset, prepaid and postpaid spaces.”
Virgin Mobile today launched two new prepaid vouchers, Motor Mouth and Message Monster, both of which cost just $25 and offer great rates to the heavy talker and texter markets respectively.
The Motor Mouth voucher offers 10c per minute* calls anytime to anyone in Oz plus a standard text rate of 25c. The Message Monster voucher offers customers 10c standard texts to anyone in Oz plus 60c per minute* calls. Both are designed to attract particular segments of the company’s customer base, as well as work alongside the existing Virgin Mobile prepaid products to attract new customers.
In addition to this Virgin Mobile has also revamped their Cap offer which sees sharp entry points, one easy to remember call rate, free voicemail in Oz and 24/7 pricing.
To support the new products Virgin Mobile has launched a new interactive ad campaign, which for the first time in Australian history, will see the company hand over the director’s reins to the viewer. The ad, which launches tonight, allows viewers to vote and create the company’s next ad, which will then be filmed, edited and put to air within 10 days.
Viewers have ten days to vote at www.virginmobile.com.au or by
calling
0403 YOUR AD where they can then choose the Genre (western,
period drama, horror or war epic), the Costume (Geisha outfit,
furry
animal, birthday suit or spacesuit), the Co-star (A pig, cabbage,
nun on a piano or a ventriloquist’s dummy) and the Soundtrack
(R&B, Techno, Metal or Disco). Again aimed at the elusive,
savvy and sophisticated youth market, the campaign is designed
to entertain and engage viewers.
Rich Field, Virgin Mobile Brand GM commented “Pushing the brand forward in 2006 is a key objective. We have built up a strong reputation as an innovative and entertaining advertiser – this new campaign continues this trend. Virgin Mobile operates in an environment where mobiles are increasingly viewed as a utility, our challenge is to not act like one.”
Matt Davey, Virgin Mobile CEO commented “The new ad campaign is a fantastic tool to communicate our new offers. The brand is our biggest asset and we have to continue to use this to our advantage - this new campaign really delivers.”
The new offers, revamped Cap plans, handsets and new campaign will all launch today. The campaign will run to mid-June with other spin-offs planned.
Notes to Editors:
Available for interview:
Matt Davey, Virgin Mobile CEO
Rich Field, Virgin Mobile Brand GM
*Billed per 30 seconds with a 25c call connection. V2V rates excluded. Rates apply to standard calls/ text/ photos in Oz. $25 credit expires 30 days after the first call/ text/ photo on each recharge voucher. Message Monster and Motor Mouth available until 31 August 2006.
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne. Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the Optus Group. Virgin Mobile now has over 500,000 customers and is one of the most recognised brands globally. Representing strong customer focus and good value for money Virgin Mobile is sold through more than 3,500 outlets across Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Virgin Mobile Unveils Monster Offers
- Virgin Mobile launches two new prepaid offers to target heavy talkers and texters -
- Virgin Mobile also revamps its CAP offers -
Wednesday 26 April 2006: Virgin Mobile today unveiled a raft of new offers targeting both the prepaid and postpaid markets. One of the biggest developments for the company is the introduction of two new prepaid vouchers aimed squarely at the heavy talker and texter market. The new Message Monster and Motor Mouth prepaid vouchers cost just $25 and offer great rates on texts and call rates, respectively.
For the text junkies out there, the Message Monster voucher is just the ticket. At $25 this voucher gives customers 10c standard texts to anyone in Oz plus calls to family and friends in Oz for a mere 60c per minute*.
If however customers suffer from lazy finger syndrome they can instead opt for the Motor Mouth voucher. Again for just $25, customers can call mates and dates for 10c per minute*, anytime in Oz plus they still benefit from a 25c standard text rate. What a win win!
Both vouchers offer 24/7 rates, with no off peak/ on peak times to remember, plus customers receive free voicemail in Oz as standard. Sitting alongside existing prepaid vouchers Virgin Mobile customers now have more choice than ever before!
If that wasn’t enough Virgin Mobile has also revealed its revamped CAP offers:
| Min Monthly Spend | Monthly included credit** | Call Rate | Text | MMS |
| $20 | $40 | 70c p/minute | 25c | 60c |
| $30 | $100 | 70c p/minute | 25c | 60c |
| $45 | $200 | 70c p/minute | 25c | 60c |
| $65 | $350 | 70c p/minute | 25c | 60c |
Committed to providing great value for money, the new CAP plans are easier than ever to understand. With one standard call, text and MMS rate the Virgin Mobile CAP offers are simple and straightforward plus they provide free voicemail in OZ.
Matt Davey Virgin Mobile CEO commented “These exciting new offers represent everything that is different about Virgin Mobile. We are committed to taking the confusion and fluff out of mobile phone offers. These new products are simple, easy to understand and great all round value for the consumer”.
The new CAP offers will replace the existing Virgin Mobile CAP offers as of 26 April 2006.
Notes to Editors:
*Billed per 30 seconds with a 25c call connection. V2V rates excluded.
Rates apply to standard calls/ text/ photos in Oz. 30day expiry starts
from the first call/ text/ photo on each recharge voucher. Message Monster
and Motor Mouth available until 31 August 2006.
# Billed per 30 seconds with a 25c call connection. Rates apply to standard calls/text/photos in Oz. V2V rates excluded from CAP plans.
** Special numbers, Vibe content and Globetrotting charges don’t count towards your included value. If you don’t spend all your included value per month you’ll lose it; spend over and you’ll continue to be charged out low rates.
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne. Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the Optus Group. Virgin Mobile now has over 500,000 customers and is one of the most recognised brands globally, representing strong customer focus and good value for money being sold through more than 3,500 outlets across Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Selda Simsek PR Executive 02 9028 0171 selda.simsek@virginmobile.com.au |
VIRGIN MOBILE MAKES AD HISTORY
- EXCITING OFFERS NEED EXCITING ADS -
For the FIRST time you decide!
Embargoed 26 April 2006: Virgin Mobile today unveiled its new interactive television ad campaign, which for the first time in Australia, allows viewers to vote and create the company’s next ad. From 26 April, Joe Public will be able to vote on the content of the new ad which will then be shot, edited and put to air within 10 days – a true Australian first!
Following in the footsteps of Warren, 5CENT, and Jason Donovan the new Virgin Mobile ad again features another “character” - this time its dull as dishwater Russell, who will star in the two part ad saga.
The first ad will air on 26 April and feature Russell who miserably advertises Virgin Mobile’s ‘Exciting’ Motorola RAZR V3 prepaid handset (only $299) and the new Virgin Mobile prepaid Motor Mouth vouchers (10c a min calls to anywhere in Oz). With an overall theme of “Exciting Offers Need Exciting ads”, viewers are invited to give Virgin Mobile’s ad, and Russell their very own personality makeover.
Viewers will able to shape the next ad, which will air on the Seriously
Short Break during House on 17 May, by choosing their favourite combination
at www.virginmobile.com.au or by calling 0403 YOUR AD. Viewers get to choose:
The Genre - Western, Period drama, Horror or War epic
The Costume - Geisha outfit, Furry animal, Birthday suit or Spacesuit
The Co-star - A Pig, Cabbage, Nun on a piano or a Ventriloquists
dummy
The Soundtrack - R&B, Techno, Metal or Disco
Voting will be open for 10 days from 26 April to midnight 6 May. On Sunday 7 May the votes will be tallied and Virgin Mobile will then shoot, edit and put the new ad to air by 17 May. Now that’s impressive!
Following the vote Russell may end up promoting the Virgin Mobile offers dressed as a geisha, dodging bombs in a war epic, with a pig and a disco soundtrack. With around 250 possible outcomes, this ad definitely won’t be like Russell – humdrum.
Dave Cain, Brand & Communications Manager at Virgin Mobile commented. “I think we’ve hit the nail on the head again whilst remaining true to our philosophy and personality. People are sick of boring ads so we wanted to spice things up a bit and again HOST and the Glue Society have delivered.”
Newly appointed GM for Virgin Mobile, Rich Field commented. “Pushing the brand forward in 2006 is a key objective. We have an impressive history when it comes to innovative advertising and it was important that this new campaign delivers. To be frank it rocks – I’m personally looking forward to the period drama, birthday suit, nun on a piano, metal combination. That’s what advertainment is all about – get ‘em involved.”
The new campaign follows on from recent wins at the AFA Advertising Effectiveness Awards for Warren, Ming Mong and 5CENT, plus a Titanium win at last years’ Cannes Lions Festival for the hip-hop ministar 5CENT.
Notes to Editors:
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused
mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne.
Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia
has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the
Optus
Group. Virgin Mobile now has over 550,000 customers and is one
of the most recognised brands globally. Representing strong customer focus
and good
value for money Virgin Mobile is sold through more than 3,500 outlets
across Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Selda Simsek PR Executive 02 9028 0171 selda.simsek@virginmobile.com.au |
[04.04.2006]
VIRGIN MOBILE APPOINTS NEW BRAND GENERAL MANAGER
4 April 2006: Virgin Mobile today announced it had appointed ex Diet Coke Brand Director Rich Field as the new Brand General Manager of Virgin Mobile.
Rich is no stranger to the Virgin Mobile brand, having held the Product Marketing Manager position with the company for over four years before his move to Coke in late 2004.
With a team of twelve, Rich will report to Marketing Director Sue Bailey and will be responsible for brand, communications, advertising and PR strategy for the brand.
Matt Davey, Virgin Mobile CEO commented “The Virgin Mobile brand is one of our most important assets and we needed to ensure that it rested in good hands. After an exhaustive search I am sure we have found the right person to take on challenges ahead. Rich brings with him a wealth of FMCG brand knowledge as well as his past Virgin Mobile experience”.
“The brand is a real focus for us in 2006 as we seek to build our awareness as well as integrate the SIMplus brand. Rich will be instrumental to this success and I look forward to working with him.”
Rich Field joins Virgin Mobile on Monday 3 April and is available for comment.
Notes to Editors:
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network
with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne.
Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia
has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the
Optus Group. Virgin Mobile now has over 550,000 customers and is one of
the most recognised brands globally, representing strong customer focus
and good value for money being sold through more than 3,500 outlets across
Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Selda Simsek PR Executive 02 9028 0171 selda.simsek@virginmobile.com.au |
The V Sexy, V3 is now V Cheap with Virgin Mobile
24 March 2006: Virgin Mobile today announced that it will be offering the V sexy silver Motorola RAZR V3 at a V impressive price of only $299. It’s the first time that that the Motorola RAZR V3 will be available on a no contract, no commitment prepaid option in Australia, giving the everyday punter the chance to own the hottest phone in town.
This sleek, super sexy handset usually retails at a whopping $499 but will be available as a prepaid offer for only $299 with Virgin Mobile from 1 April 2006.
With an ultra-thin, sleek style the Motorola RAZR V3 is the must have phone of 2006. But the style doesn’t just stop at face value – featuring quad-band GSM, Bluetooth wireless technology, digital camera and with MPEG4 Video Playback it’s a must-have handset.
Kerry Parkin, PR Manager at Virgin Mobile commented, “Not only is this an impressive handset, but the fact it’s available for our Prepaid customers at just $299, it’s an absolute steal. With free voicemail in oz, 5c texts Virgin 2 Virgin and 5c per minute calls Virgin 2 Virgin* this is the deal of the year”.
The $299 Motorola RAZR V3 is available from Virgin Mobile stores, online at www.virginmobile.com.au or call 13 43 00.
Notes to Editors:
* 20c call connection fee applies. The Motorola RAZR V3 is secured to the Virgin
Mobile network and can be released after being topped up with $80 on your
new service.
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne. Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and was recently acquired by the Optus Group. Virgin Mobile now has over 550,000 customers and is one of the most recognised brands globally, representing strong customer focus and good value for money being sold through more than 3,500 outlets across Australia.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Selda Simsek PR Executive 02 9028 0171 selda.simsek@virginmobile.com.au |
Optus merges Virgin Mobile Australia and SIMplus
Optus Chief Executive Paul O'Sullivan announced today the planned operational integration of two wholly-owned Optus subsidiaries, Virgin Mobile Australia (VMA) and SIMplus Mobile.
“VMA has one of the strongest prepaid offerings in the market and SIMplus has strengths in the post paid market through varied sales channels,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“Synergies between the two companies are strong and in the highly competitive mobile market, combining these operations makes good business sense.
“The integration supports Optus’ strategy to strengthen its mobile market position and provides a solid foundation for future growth of the Virgin Mobile brand,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
Mr Matt Davey has been appointed Chief Executive of the combined operation. Mr Davey replaces Jonathan Marchbank who has decided to pursue a new opportunity.
“I would like to thank Jonathan. He has been a great supporter of Optus’ acquisition of VMA and working towards taking VMA into its next phase,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
SIMplus Managing Director, Keir Preedy will work with Mr Davey to oversee the realisation of the business benefits of the two companies as acting Chief Operating Officer.
Mr Davey recently returned from a eight month posting with Globe Telecom in the Philippines, a SingTel Group company, where he helped establish the small business group.
Mr Davey has been with Optus for over nine years working in the Consumer and Small Business Customer Facing Units. He has extensive telecommunications experience in the prepaid and post paid consumer and business markets.
“Optus is pleased to have secured someone with such extensive knowledge of the mobile industry to lead the new VMA,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“Matt will provide strong leadership during the transition of the company and drive VMA on to further success as it expands its product range.”
Mr Davey will begin immediately, reporting to Paul O’Sullivan.
Both companies will remain as separate legal entities.
Media contact:
Simone Bergholcs
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 9342 7846
Note to editor:
About Virgin Mobile Australia
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile
operator with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney,
Brisbane & Melbourne.
Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and now has over 500,000 customers, employs over 300 people.
Virgin is one of the most recognised brands globally, representing strong customer focus and good value for money.
About SIMplus Mobile
SIMplus Mobile is one of the largest service providers of the Optus
Network in Australia.
SIMplus Mobile is dedicated to offering uncomplicated, value-driven mobile solutions that put the customer in control. This is achieved through easy to understand plans, competitive call rates, a dependable network service and simple billing and payment options.
With more than 4,100 base stations, the Optus Network is committed to providing coverage where and when it is needed, currently offering coverage to more than 96 per cent of the Australian population.
VIRGIN MOBILE LINES UP TO ROCK BIG DAY OUT
18 January 2006: Virgin Mobile today announced it would be sponsoring the Australian leg of the 2006 Big Day Out. Following a successful association in 2005, Virgin Mobile has again signed up to appear in front of the 230,000 strong crowd.
Appearing at five events in January and February Virgin Mobile aims to
further leverage its historic music association and cement its roots in
the Australian youth festival scene.
Virgin Mobile sponsored the event in 2005, where hip-hop mini-star
5CENT made a guest appearance signing over 5,000 autographs for
stumped punters. Activity also included texting the big screen
and the Cones of Silence, which enabled festival-goers to talk
on their mobile and be heard clearly at the event.
This year Virgin Mobile will concentrate on extending their infotainment services with exclusive Big Day Out content and updates. Big Day Out devotees can receive exclusive updates from MoBDO, a Virgin Mobile WAP mag which has the low down on everything from the latest band news to wallpapers and ringtones. Punters can also sign up for Big Day Out Text Alerts direct to their phone – giving a truly connected customer experience. Both services are available to any customer on any network however Virgin Mobile customers can receive these extras free of charge.
Virgin Mobile has also planned a raft of on the ground activities including deluxe VIP toilets for competition winners and a get recharged point. Here customers can stock up on battery and credit, or they can simply charge their own batteries by kicking back in the Virgin Mobile chill out zone.
Dave Cain, Brand and Communications Manager commented “These day’s
everyone wants to get into the youth / music / cool group scene, and the
Big Day Out definitely leads the pack in providing this opportunity.
Where we differ is that we’re not about chucking a logo on a hotdog
(or other equally irrelevant branding) or bombarding punters with our ads,
everything we do is about adding value to the Big Day Out experience.”
Virgin Mobile will be featured at the Big Day Out Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth events from January 2006.
Notes to Editors:
Virgin Mobile Australia is a leading consumer focused mobile network with its headquarters in Sydney and stores in Sydney, Brisbane & Melbourne. Following a successful launch in October 2000, Virgin Mobile Australia has continued to achieve strong growth and now has over 600,000 customers, employs over 350 people and is sold through more than 3,500 outlets across Australia. Virgin is one of the most recognised brands globally, representing strong customer focus and good value for money.
For further information on Virgin Mobile Australia please contact:
| Kerry Parkin PR Manager 02 9028 0188 kerry.parkin@virginmobile.com.au |
Mel Clark PR and Marketing Assistant 02 9028 0171 melanie.clark@virginmobile.com.au |
[11.01.2006]
OPTUS ACQUIRES VIRGIN MOBILE AUSTRALIA
Optus announced today that it had acquired 74.15 per cent of Virgin Mobile Australia Pty Limited (“VMA”) from the Virgin Group for A$30 million, increasing the Optus shareholding in VMA to 100 per cent.
At the same time, Virgin Enterprises Limited granted Optus a 15-year licence for ongoing use of the Virgin Mobile brand in Australia. This licence will extend to other telecommunication products and allow the Optus Group to market an increased range of products to consumers using the Virgin brand.
Mr Warren Hardy, Managing Director Optus Wholesale and Satellite, said Virgin Mobile had a unique position in the mobile market and consumers identified with the passionate and fun approach the company has.
“This acquisition cements VMA’s future and creates significant new opportunities in marketing an expanded product range to consumers,” Mr Hardy said.
“VMA will continue to provide simple and easy to understand offers. We expect the acquisition and ongoing licence to lead to growth in market share,” Mr Hardy said.
Jonathan Marchbank, Virgin Mobile Australia Managing Director, said the acquisition was a great outcome for VMA.
“Maintaining the Virgin Mobile brand in Australia and being 100 per cent backed by a solid company like Optus is a great outcome for our staff and our customers.
“This acquisition demonstrates Optus’ commitment to providing competition and choice to benefit Australian consumers,” Mr Marchbank said.
Over the coming months, Optus will work with VMA’s management to integrate the company into the Optus Group.
VMA’s mobile customers will continue to receive services as usual.
Media contact:
Simone Bergholcs
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: +61 2 9342 7846 or +61 0412 206 602
Notes to Editor
Virgin Mobile Australia
- Established as a 50:50 joint venture between companies in the Optus and Virgin groups in 2000
- Virgin Group increased its shareholding to 74.15 per cent in 2002
- Over 500,000 customers
- Employs over 300 people across Australia
- Retail outlets in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne and distribution channels will remain.
Financial background
- The deal comprises a cash payment of A$30 million for the 74.15 per cent equity interest and the buy out of the existing debt of £1.3 million owed by VMA to Virgin, on completion of the acquisition.
- Based on audited financial statements as at 31 December 2004, prepared in accordance with accounting standards in Australia, VMA had net assets of A$8.8 million.
- For the year ended 31 December 2004, VMA recorded revenue of A$189 million and EBITDA of A$1.3 million. The consideration for the acquisition was arrived at on a willing buyer-willing seller basis, taking into account the expectations of both the Optus and Virgin groups as to VMA’s future prospects.
