COLUMBUS, Ohio-National reseller IMO reported plans to offer Verizon Wireless phones and service.
IMO-short for “independent mobile”-was founded last year as an alternative to both carrier-branded stores and big-box retailers. The company resells products and services for Sprint Nextel Corp., T-Mobile USA Inc. and several mobile virtual network operators.
“Our authorized dealers are important sales vehicles for us, and IMO reflects our own value of providing service and convenience to the customer,” said Roger Tang, president of the Ohio and Pennsylvania region for Verizon Wireless. “We build relationships with retailers whose innovative strategy best showcases our technology and who positively reflect our brand image.”
Meanwhile, Nokia Corp. announced plans to open retail stores in “shopping capitals of the world.” The handset manufacturer, which hopes to interact directly with consumers to push its phones and services, opened a flagship store in Moscow.
“It is a place for discovery and entertainment,” Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, president and chief operating officer of Nokia, said of the new outlet. “Whether it is demonstrating the features and capabilities of our latest multimedia smart phone or assisting a consumer with their mobile e-mail settings, we want to offer a relaxing, interactive environment for consumers to truly experience the power of mobility.”
Nokia currently operates several wireless kiosks in select markets across the country that showcase the company’s handset line. However, the kiosks do not actually sell devices. Customers looking to purchase handsets are directed to traditional wireless retail outlets.
