Phones 4 U collapses in UK putting jobs on the line

LONDON, UK: British mobile phone retailer Phones 4U has collapsed into administration, putting more than 5,500 jobs at risk, the group said.
More than 500 Phones 4 U shops are likely to close in Britain as network operators have refused to supply services to the group, making it impossible for it to trade. Image:
More than 500 Phones 4 U shops are likely to close in Britain as network operators have refused to supply services to the group, making it impossible for it to trade. Image: Fareham Shopping

The company said in a statement that it was forced into administration - a stage aimed at preventing a total collapse of the group - after phone network operator EE declined to renew its current contract last, following a similar decision by Vodafone.

Phones 4U's 550 stores will be closed until administrators decide whether the business can open again for trading.

"If the mobile network operators decline to supply us, we do not have a business," said Phones 4U Chief Executive David Kassler.

Phones4U, which is owned by private equity firm BC Partners, has 550 shops and employs 5,596 people across Britain.

Administration is the process through which a troubled company calls upon independent expert financial help in an attempt to remain operational and stay in business.

Source: AFP via I-Net Bridge


 
For more, visit: https://www.bizcommunity.com