Shebang Distribution to back Asda’s rollout of mobile stores as distributor and fuifilment partner

Shebang Distribution is to underpin Asda’s in-store ‘Phone Shop’ trial, and further roll-out of the sites in its supercentres later in the year.

It has also been contracted to design and build its mobile sales website.

Asda is to open Phone Shops within two stores in the next few weeks, utilising Shebang’s new Sellfone SpeedPoint EPOS system.

The trial will make available new contract connections and upgrades on Orange, Vodafone, T-Mobile and Three, alongside prepay and accessories sales. MVNO Asda Mobile will also be sold.

Asda’s move to set up as an airtime retailer in its own right, with dedicated in-store shops, follows the failure of its recent trial concessions with Orange.

The deal with Shebang follows the distributor’s cancellation of its Tesco contract, worth around £20 million in turnover per annum.

Shebang managing director Iain Humphrey said: “We expect this to expand into a real partnership, allowing value and growth for both parties. Asda’s approach to retailing and partnerships is a breath of fresh air.”