Vertu from the Rivoli Group unveils aggressive expansion plans in the region

The world's first and only manufacturer of handcrafted luxury mobile phones will soon also be available through Vertu outlets at Grand Hyatt Dubai and Seef Mall, Bahrain in addition to the Vertu store in Burjuman.

"The emirates' retail sector, especially at the premium end of the scale is passing through an unprecedented growth. A modern classic such as Vertu has further complimented our existing luxury portfolio and the target segment we cater to. We've got the right location and the right product. These openings will represent a whole new experience for shoppers in the UAE and Bahrain and those coming to the region," highlighted Mr. Ramesh Prabhakar, Managing Partner of the Rivoli Group. The Rivoli Group will also be opening Qatar and Saudi Arabia markets in the 2nd half of 2005, thus completing the network in the region.

On the announcement, Mr. Giles Rees, (Global Sales Director ), said: "Rivoli Group with its well built distribution channel, extensive retail expertise in luxury segment and rich local contacts has proved to be an ideal partner for us to penetrate further in the UAE and establish the brand in new markets such as Bahrain."

"Coinciding neatly with the retail expansion is the increase in tourist traffic through Dubai, especially of high-spending European, Russian and Indian visitors. Dubai's projections of 15 million visitors by 2010, once dismissed as excessively optimistic, now look well within reach. On the other hand, Bahrain's upbeat economy and certain charm on the tourism front make it a profitable market," he further commented.

Vertu, a name committed to unparalleled communication solutions has pioneered an entirely new category in mobile communication. More than a mobile telephone, it fuses the best in craftsmanship, precision engineering, proven technology, high performance and a unique personal service, into one ground breaking invention appealing to the most discerning customer. The brand caters to the high income group, achievers, who have excelled and differentiated themselves in every sphere of life.

Drawing its inspiration from explorers and visionaries from other creative disciplines, it fulfils an uncompromising mission of building an instrument of exceptional artistry. "In the hands of the highest statesmen of the world, Vertu phones have been available in limited quantities at a selected network of authorized dealers. Rivoli in this part of the world takes pride to be one of them," Prabhakar added.

For Creative Director and Designer, Frand Nuovo and Vertu's team, building this groundbreaking product is just the beginning of Vertu's commitment. The instrument's components have been specially crafted in partnership with the world's most prestigious manufacturers. From Vertu's sapphire crystal face to the bezels that come from a venerable supplier of platinum and gold, to the leather that surrounds Vertu crafted from the finest hide. The engines architecture has been developed to ensure trusted and proven performance through an advanced technology partnership.

Assembled by hand in pristine workshops, this collection uses only the highest quality materials, including a scratch resistant sapphire crystal face, ultra strong highly polished ceramic, fine leather for better grip and jewelled bearings that are fitted under each key, ensuring precision and longevity. Vertu instruments are available in the highest quality stainless steel, stainless steel with yellow metal, 18-carat yellow gold, 18-carat white gold and platinum which are all individually hallmarked.

A dedicated Vertu Concierge key on the side of the phone allows Vertu users to connect to the unique Vertu Concierge service. The Vertu Concierge can offer everything from product support and information, to exclusive benefits and insider advantages from a network of travel specialists, hotels, restaurants, and member-only facilities such as gyms and sporting clubs. Whether the client is at home or abroad, Vertu Concierge is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Vertu boasts a front-lit high-resolution display, and a refined new antenna giving unparalleled sensitivity. Furthermore, Vertu's hi-fidelity audio system speaker dramatically enriches the aural experience with original composition ring tones, producing a full-bodied sound.