31 October 2007
UK mobile phone firm Vodafone is all set for another link-up with Lebara Mobile, which will see the launch of a new Sim-only service.
The new service is expected to target the UK's immigrant population - a growing market, considering the government's revelation this week that 1.1 million have arrived since 1997.
Moreover, the Guardian reports, census figures show that there are 4.6 million consumers from ethnic minorities in Britain - who might also be interested in the new joint venture.
This is because Lebara specialises in selling international telephone cards - which offer cheap rates to immigrants and those with family living abroad who want to make phone calls home.
The firm has strong links with networks to Africa, south-east Asia, India, Pakistan and Eastern Europe.
"The deal with Lebara Mobile is part of Vodafone's drive to increase the revenues it makes from wholesale deals that allow other companies to use its network to run services," the Guardian adds.
Reuters also reports the firm's estimate that "the market for supplying communications services to immigrants could be worth around £500 million a year".
An official announcement from Vodafone is expected to be made later today.
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