Virgin Mobile Set for Launch in Central and Eastern Europe

LONDON, July 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

New Virgin Mobile company formed to launch a branded Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) business into Poland this summer.

Virgin Mobile Central and Eastern Europe (VMCEE) is set to launch in Poland this summer, the first market for the newly formed holding company. VMCEE was founded in 2011 by a team of experienced telecom investors, together with former Virgin Mobile and Lebara executives. 

The MVNO market is set to grow rapidly in Central and Eastern Europe as the region's mobile markets mature and the regulatory systems evolve.   The launch in Poland will provide Virgin with a strong platform in the Central and Eastern Europe region. Poland has an attractive and accessible telecommunications market which offers significant potential for MVNO growth. 

VMCEE will leverage the global knowledge and proven business formula of one of the world's most successful MVNOs, Virgin Mobile, and further benefits from having common founding shareholders with Virgin Mobile Latin America (VMLA) and Virgin Mobile Middle East and Africa (VMMEA).

Virgin Mobile is already the world's largest international MVNO and operates mobile telecommunications businesses in eight countries around the world including the UK, Australia, Canada, France, India, Chile, South Africa and the USA.

Richard Branson said: "I look for opportunities where we can offer something better, fresher and more valuable.  I am excited to launch the Virgin Mobile brand in Poland.  The Polish consumer will benefit from Virgin's entry into the market; creating competition, providing great customer service, value for money and transparent pricing."

Alan Gow, Chairman VMCEE and previously Co-Founder, CFO and Managing Director of Virgin Mobile UK, added: "The Virgin Mobile brand is one of the most successful and revered MVNO brands globally, and the Virgin Group has an excellent track record of operating successful MVNO businesses in other parts of the world, so I am excited about working closely with Virgin Group on the launch of Virgin Mobile in the Central and Eastern Europe region."

About the Virgin Group

The Virgin Group is a leading international branded investment company and one of the world's most recognised and respected brands.  Conceived in 1970 by Sir Richard Branson, the Virgin Group has gone on to grow successful businesses in sectors ranging from mobile telephony and media to transportation, travel, financial services, hotels, health and fitness, as well as renewable technologies and space tourism.  Virgin has created more than 400 branded companies worldwide, employs more than 50,000 people, in 35 countries.  Its global branded revenues in 2011 exceeded £13 billion (approx. US$20 billion).

About Virgin Mobile

Virgin Mobile is a pioneer of the MVNO business model.  The brand already operates successfully in eight markets; bringing consumers great value for money, market leading customer service and customer centric product design.  For more information, please go to http://www.virginmobile.com

For more information, please go to http://www.virginmobilecee.com  or contact the Virgin Mobile Central and Eastern Europe Press Office at contact@virginmobilecee.com or +44-(0)7981-216-994.