Virgin attracts new customers

Newly floated Mobile phone operator Virgin Mobile said it had attracted 287,196 new customers during the three months up to June 30, representing a 7.2% rise over the same period last year.

The company said it currently has a total of 4.2 million customers.

However, the amount of money spent by the 'average' user dropped slightly during the quarter to £142, compared with £147 in the first three months of 2003, as a result of strong growth during Christmas last year bringing in more lower-spending customers.

The company increased its revenues by 23.9% to £123.6m, driven by the rising customer base.

Looking forward Virgin Mobile said it expected to benefit from new services such as picture messaging and increased uptake of its international roaming service, which became available to its pre-pay customers this summer.

Chief executive Tom Alexander said, "These results are a great start to the year and we are confident of the continuing strength of our brand and business model."

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