Elite Telecom snaps up FoneRent

BUSINESS telecoms provider Elite Telecom has bought a Stockport-based mobile phone specialist out of administration.

Chorley-based Elite has picked up FoneRent which specialises in temporary phone services for people working at major international sporting events.

The value of the deal was not disclosed.

Mark Getliffe of CLB Coopers was appointed administrator to the company in March. It was owned equally by Paul Gilmore, David Gill and Terfel Roberts.

The company has provided mobile services to Cannes Film Festival and worked with BBC sport, ITV sport, Formula One and the Olympics. But it suffered a decline in contracts following the Olympics and a shortage of working capital and bank funding, said Elite.

Elite’s operations director Alex Cliffe said: “When we learnt FoneRent had gone into administration we knew we could offer a lifeline to its clients and suppliers which would ensure a continuity of service.

“Our size and success means we’re much better placed to manage the seasonality of the business, we have always provided clients with an excellent service and helped them overcome the simple but expensive hurdles placed in front them just because they do business overseas.”

Ian Duff, FoneRent’s head of service and support has been welcomed as part of Elite, he said: “This has been the best possible outcome, clients have traded with FoneRent for years because we have always gone out of our way to meet their requirements.

“Their response has been really positive and some are looking to place even more business with us now on the basis that we’re part of a much bigger, profitable company like Elite.”