Mobile operator Cell C has dismissed media reports emanating from the Middle East that suggest the company is the target of a takeover by Virgin Mobile.
It is widely known that Sir Richard Branson`s Virgin Mobile has been looking into the possibility of moving into the SA market, but Cell C claims that while it has engaged in talks with Virgin Mobile, these have been "about potential mutual business opportunities and co-operation in the local telecoms sector", according to a company statement.
Cell C has sent a letter to the publication that made the allegations, Middle East & Africa Wireless Analyst, claiming "the article makes numerous false statements about Cell C and Virgin".
"Contrary to the statement made in your article of a 'partial or complete buyout of Cell C by Virgin Mobile`, there are no talks between the companies on this subject," continues the statement.
"Cell C is not for sale, although it is always interested in pursuing strategically adjacent opportunities to enhance its revenue streams."
The letter goes on to say that there is absolutely no question of "renaming Cell C to Virgin", as the company`s success in the SA market can be attributed, in part, to its breakthrough marketing and the company`s corporate strategy.
"Positioning through award-winning advertising and innovative communications has ensured that Cell C is recognised by reputable local and international institutions as ranking among SA`s top 50 brands," concludes the statement.
While the letter describes the media report`s contents as "factually incorrect and the conclusions drawn and speculative comment is entirely misleading and devoid of substance", the company nonetheless does not dismiss the possibility of doing some form of business with Virgin in the future.
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