Vodafone Australia has announced it has expanded its operations with the purchase of mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) Lebara’s Australian mobile business assets.
As part of the deal, Vodafone Australia will take ownership of Lebara's 130k customer base and branding within Australia. The UK-based MVNO has been operating in Australia since 2009 and has been using Vodafone's network to serve its customers.
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. 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.
Lebara group claims to be one of Europe's fastest growing mobile companies with five million active customers, 1,000 employees worldwide and operations in eight countries.
Dan Lloyd, Chief Strategy Officer, Vodafone 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. 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.
Yoganathan Ratheesan, Lebara Group Chairman and CEO
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.
