Proximus, the leading mobile operator in Belgium and a Vodafone associate, and Vodafone, the world's largest mobile community, today announce that they will be reinforcing their existing co-operation by introducing Vodafone's international services in the Belgian market, aswell as increasing operational synergies.
Vodafone and its partners' customers will be able to enjoy seamless access to Vodafone's international mobile services while travelling in Belgium and Proximus' customers will be able to benefit from services such as Vodafone Eurocall, Assisted Roaming, Pre-paid Roaming and GPRS Roaming. Dual Proximus-Vodafone branding will be used in the communication of these services at entry points into Belgium.
Proximus will also launch Vodafone live! in Belgium during 2004, under licence from Vodafone. Now available in 15* countries, Vodafone live! enables customers to use picture messaging, download polyphonic ringtones and colour games, and browse leading branded entertainment from the latest camera phones through an easy to use, icon driven menu. Launched in October 2002, Vodafone live! now has more than 3 million customers. The Vodafone live! offering in Belgium will include current Proximus Interactive local content.
In addition to the rollout of new products and services, Vodafone and Proximus will increase their co-operation in the development of operational synergies in procurement including IT and best practice sharing.
Peter Bamford, Chief Marketing Officer, Vodafone, said:
"Our growing relationship with Proximus will bring enhanced services to Vodafone customers while roaming in Belgium and will enable both companies to continue to realise further benefits from Vodafone's unique footprint and scale. The introduction of Vodafone live! in Belgium next year, demonstrates that through working together we can provide customers with the best in mobile services."
Philippe Vander Putten, Chief Executive Officer, Proximus, said:
"Ten years after having introduced mobile phone technology in Belgium, Proximus now enters into a new phase of its development. We are confident this reinforced co-operation with the leading global mobile player will strengthen Proximus' leadership and differentiation in the Belgian market, offering our customers the best combination of global assets and local expertise."
The partners expect that this closer co-operation will enhance Proximus' competitiveness, with new and exciting mobile services being introduced to customers in Belgium.
Notes to Editors
Vodafone Group has a 25% shareholding in Proximus, the remaining 75% shareholding is held by Belgacom.
* Launched in October 2002, Vodafone live! is now offered in 15 markets
- Australia, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.
