Vodafone and Russia’s MTS have agreed to extend their strategic partner market agreement and extend its scope in Ukraine.
Under the new, non-equity partnership, the companies will roll out 3G and develop a number of new services in the market using the Vodafone brand in Ukraine.
Vodafone and MTS have been working together since the original partner market agreement was signed in 2008. Under it, MTS has gained exclusive access to a range of products, services and devices from Vodafone for both consumer and corporate markets. It has also helped MTS use Vodafone’s expertise in the marketing and deployment of new technologies.
Commenting on the expanded partnership, Vodafone Partner Markets chief executive Stefano Gastaut said: “The new, enhanced agreement with MTS enables us to bring the best of Vodafone’s products and services to the people of Ukraine. MTS Ukraine is building a high quality 3G network, which means Vodafone will launch in a strong position in the market. Our deeper co-operation in the business – signified by the introduction of the Vodafone brand – will bring additional benefits to consumers and businesses as we focus on a successful launch of 3G data services and greater adoption of the mobile internet.”
MTS Ukraine general director Oleg Prozhyvalsky added: “Undoubtedly, the launch of the Vodafone brand in Ukraine is the most significant event in the market over recent years. Ukrainian customers will be able to get access to a wide range of 3G services already available in Europe and other Vodafone countries. The implementation of the company’s unique global technological and marketing expertise in Ukraine will have a positive impact for consumers, enterprises and the economy.”
MTS Ukraine is based in Kiev and has more than 20 million customers and 3,800 employees.