Cellucom, CompuMe in strategic mobile phone retail alliance

The new Val-U-Shop outlet set up at CompuMe is another valuable addition to Cellucom's expanding mobile phone retail network. The Val-U-Shop franchise, which was launched in June 2003, has been growing steadily since its inception and today includes over 30 outlets in various parts of the UAE.

Cellucom has over the years identified innovative ways of reaching out to potential customers. The Val-U-Shop network was launched in recognition of the changing relationship between distributors and resellers, in part due to the increasing complexity of mobile telecommunication products, said Arun Nagar, Managing Director, Cellucom.

"Our partnership with CompuMe exemplifies the impact of the growing convergence of IT and mobile technology. Through our association, CompuMe will bring to their customers not only the very latest in mobile telephones from leading vendors but the many benefits attached to shopping at any point on the Val-U-Shop network, including special offers and a five-country warranty," Nagar said.

Leon Beuyukian, CompuMe's Chief Executive Officer, explained that with the objective of providing shoppers at their stores leading edge mobile communication devices, they pinpointed a partner that would offer their customers the most value. "Our aim has always been to provide our customers a one-stop shop for technology products of the best quality, the best value and peace of mind with the most comprehensive after sales services."

In addition to the warranty that covers five countries and special offers, customer advantages include trade-in facilities, 30-minute phone repair or replacement, free home delivery, games and software. The Val-U-Shop outlet at CompuMe also provides shoppers facilities for trying out PC games. Shoppers would also be able to buy UClub prepaid cards, thus enabling them to download select offerings from www.uclubme.com, Cellucom's online community for mobile phone users, such as ring-tones, Java games, and animated screensavers.

The establishment of the Val-U-Shop outlet at CompuMe is expected to increase shopper footfall at the store and consequently impact sales across product categories.

According to Nagar, the partnership with CompuMe is in line with Cellucom's vision of providing its customers a retail environment that stimulates, satisfies and builds confidence that they are buying from someone who understands their requirements. "Consumers today are more technology savvy and this partnership enables us to bring to shoppers a platform from which they can make the right choices for their mobile communication needs for a rich total mobile experience."