Vodafone today became the third telecom operator in India to have a subscriber base of over 100 million. Vodafone Essar has announced that it has crossed the landmark of 100 million subscribers in India. With this achievement, Vodafone Essar becomes world’s 5th operator with 100 million customers in a single country. Vodafone has also increased its market share to strengthen its position as India’s second largest operator in terms of revenue.“This is a significant achievement for us and reflects the trust customers have bestowed on the company,” said Marten Pieters, Managing Director and CEO, Vodafone Essar, “In the past three years, we have invested over Rs. 20,000 crores to expand our operations to service customers in India. We will utilize our global and Indian experience to deliver the best products and services to our customers.”
Starting with about 28 million subscribers across 16 circles in May 2007, Vodafone Essar today has 100 million customers and its footprint has extended to all the 23 circles in the country. This journey is a testimony of Vodafone’s success in a highly competitive and price sensitive market. Around 60% of the Company’s customer additions now come from upcountry areas. With a distribution reach of about 1.2 million outlets, Vodafone is well-geared to serve customers in the remotest corners of India.
“In addition to voice and text, Vodafone will also work on investing in platforms that will enable the delivery of internet and data services to a large part of the country. Vodafone will also continue to increase investments in new business areas like enterprise and carriers business,” Mr. Pieters added.
Earlier this 100 million subscribers milestone was achieved by Airtel and Reliance.