Vodafone keeps its own channel plans

Despite the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) approval for a merger between Vodafone and Hutchison, neither have any plans for a joint channel program, as yet.

Now that Vodafone and Hutchison have received clearance from the ACCC, both mobile service providers expect to complete the merger transaction within the next two weeks.

A media representative for Vodafone, told CRN, until completion is achieved, it will continue to operate as two, separate businesses.

"As detailed in after completion of the merger, we will continue to market products and services under the Vodafone and 3 brands so all retail outlets and customer service capabilities will remain unchanged for the foreseeable future," said the representative.

"All branded stores will remain separate and will continue to service our respective customers as normal."

Both companies will now be able to form a joint-venture that will be known as Vodafone Hutchison Australia (VHA).

Nick Reed, CEO of Vodafone Asia-Pacific & Middle East Region and proposed Chairman of VHA, said the ACCC's decision confirmed its view that the merger will be good news for Australian customers.

"VHA will be a stronger mobile company, more competitive and more capable of providing an even better deal for customers," he said.

The joint venture will continue to market products and services under the Vodafone and 3 brands and all network arrangements, caps and plans, retail outlets and customer service capabilities will remain unchanged for the foreseeable future.