"Retailer Phones 4U is to fall into administration putting 5,596 jobs at risk.

The chain, which is owned by private equity firm BC Partners, said its 550 stores would all be closed on Monday.

Phones 4U blamed mobile network EE's decision not to renew its contract - which came after Vodafone made a similar decision - for the move.

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

A spokesperson for EE said the decision not to renew its contract with Phones 4U was "driven by developments in the marketplace that have called into question the long term viability of the Phones 4U business".

The spokesperson said the decision was also "in line with our strategy to focus on growth in our direct channels"."


Full story here:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/29201191

There's a picture on the Daily Mail web site of a closed shop door showing a notice with contact details.  Guess what, they're all 0844 numbers !!!

Perhaps this could be a lesson in retailing that using 0844 and 0871 is sending Customers to competitors with 01/02/03 numbers as the Public is getting more aware of number costs, they don't need excessive costs to enquire about buying a phone  >:(

If they are not selling loads of phones it is logical that the Big Boys are going to use other small retailers to lodge their Services with.

"driven by developments in the marketplace that have called into question the long term viability of the Phones 4U business".  This excuse could be viewed either way  ;D