Wanadoo links with Time Group for distribution deal

by Mark Sweney,, Marketing 04-Aug-04, 08:00

LONDON - Wanadoo has signed a distribution deal with computer manufacturer and retailer Time Group.

The internet service provider, which rebranded from Freeserve in April, previously had a partnership with PC World, which it lost to rival AOL.

Under the three-year deal, Time Group, which owns the Tiny Computers brand, will preload Wanadoo's ISP software on to all PCs it sells through 140 UK retail outlets and direct channels.

Time will be one of Wanadoo's first retail partners to sell its Livebox, which will provide wireless broadband access from launch next month, and in the future will offer voice services and TV on demand.

Time will also promote Wanadoo Broadband in its stores, online and through joint advertising activity.

Duncan Beard, director of partner marketing at Wanadoo, said: "Time provides Wanadoo with a relevant customer base as we seek to grow our number of broadband customers and launch services over the coming months."

He added that there was a possibility that Wanadoo will continue a relationship with Dixons Group, owner of the PC World chain, as a retailer of its Livebox in the future.

Wanadoo's broadband distribution deal with Dixons Group ends next February, when AOL takes over as exclusive partner.

Its narrowband distribution deal with Dixons and Currys terminated earlier this year. In May, Wanadoo struck an exclusive deal to make its software available in 85 Maplin Electronics stores. The ISP also has deals with Orange, Argos, Texaco, Index and Lloydspharmacy Group.

In June, Wanadoo ended a two-month search for a replacement for marketing chief, Keith Hawkins, by hiring former T-Mobile vice-president of international advertising and communications, Philip Mehl.

Mehl joined in the new role of managing director of sales and communications. He will take overall responsibility for Wanadoo's £15m promotional budget.

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